Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Life

Category: Outdoor Design

  • How to Plant and Grow Fruit Trees: Citrus, Stone Fruit, and More

    Fruit trees can be an attractive addition to your landscape and provide nourishing food to save money on groceries. They also attract pollinators—like honeybees—which means having fruit trees in your garden lets you play an important role in the ecosystem.

    But, are fruit trees right for your property? If so, which types of trees are best suited for your yard?

    There are many factors to consider when deciding to plant any kind of tree. First, you need to think about what local farmers are growing—what kinds of trees are the experts doing well with in your area; these are the specimens that will probably grow well for you.

    Next, if you’re going to plant a fruit tree, you should select from those that are suitable for your growing zone. For example, The Arbor Day Foundation has developed a U.S. Hardiness Zone Map that shows which plants are most likely to thrive in a particular area.

    Additionally, to successfully grow a tree and enjoy all its fruits (and not have it become a burden or nightmare), you need to pick the right place for it. You should place trees away from your home so there’s enough room for their roots to grow to full size, and you must be mindful of where your trees will potentially drop their fruit.

    It’s possible and probable that, with the right plan, you can discover the deliciousness and delight of growing fruit trees. Here’s how to choose a tree and give it the best care so you can reap its benefits.

     Plan Ahead 

    Go to your local garden center or nursery to see which trees are the best picks for your property. These stores usually only stock trees that will grow well in the local area. You can also check the USDA Hardiness Zone Map to ensure the tree you want is right for your climate. Most fruit trees—not citrus—require chill hours (the amount of time a tree spends before 45 degrees during winter to break dormancy and produce flowers).

    If you have a small garden, opt for a self-fruiting or self-fertile tree, which means it doesn’t need another tree variety for pollination. Ensure you choose a disease and pest-resistant tree, and always check a tree’s hangtag or ask the nursery to help you understand how much care you’ll need to provide to keep the tree flourishing.

     Select a Location 

    Most trees do best in full sun (six to eight hours of sun each day). Sunlight is critical for fruit formation and development, and it ensures good tree health.

    Additionally, avoid planting trees under utility lines or new sewer lines; growing branches and roots have the potential to down power lines and puncture plumbing (ask your utility company to mark the location of lines on your property so you can plant far from these areas).

    Plant trees in well-draining soil. If you place them in dirt that’s always wet, you’ll increase the chance of disease. Small trees—like mandarin oranges or some key limes—may do well in raised beds; many homeowners have found great success with dwarf varieties of lemons, limes, oranges, and grapefruit.

    Keep in mind that south-facing slopes and hilltops are typically warmer areas of a yard, which means planting there might give you more tree growth and crops could ripen earlier. However, since north-facing slopes are generally cooler, they’re the best location for early flowering trees that might flower prematurely on a south-facing slope. If you get freezing weather, low areas might offer the best protection for your tree.

     How to Plant 

    You should plant fruit trees on the day you purchase them or have them delivered. To plant your tree, soak its bucket or roots in water for a few hours. Then,

    • dig a hole that’s twice as wide and deep as the tree’s root ball

    • place the tree in the hole and spread out its roots (cut off any damaged roots)

    • fill the hole with native soil

    • build a trench around the tree to hold water (important for root establishment)

    • let the tree get used to the surrounding soil (don’t add compost)

    • supplement the soil with an organic fertilizer

     Staking Your Tree 

    Staking provides stability for your tree while growing, in windy climates, and in areas where it might be hit. You should remove a tree’s stake when the plant is strong enough to stand on its own, or else the stake will damage the trunk and possibly ruin the entire tree.

     Caring For Your Tree 

    Here are tips for caring for some of the most popular citrus trees.

    • Orange – Water orange trees when the top two inches of the soil beneath it feels dry. Feed orange trees every second watering during spring and summer.

    • Peach – Plant peach trees in sandy, well-drained, and acidic soil. Adding an organic mulch around the tree helps keep weeds away and maintain soil health.

    • Lemon – Lemon trees thrive on well-drained soil, so if you have dense dirt, consider a raised bed for your tree instead. Fertilize in the spring and summer—once a month—to encourage fruit.

    • Grapefruit – Grapefruit trees love well-drained, sandy, and loose soil and don’t do well in clay. Feeding your grapefruit tree a citrus-specific fertilizer and increase the amount as the tree ages.

    • Avocado – Avocado trees need acidic, sandy, and well-drained soil to grow optimally. Water young trees frequently until they become established and then provide mature trees with about two inches of water per week.

    • Key Lime – Only water key lime trees once or twice a week. Feed sparingly with a slow-release, high-nitrogen fertilizer that contains zinc, manganese, and iron.

    • Pomelo – Pomelo trees do well in highly acidic or alkaline soil, as long as it’s well drained. You’ll only need to fertilize these trees three times a year, but you can sprinkle its soil with Epsom salt once a month to keep it healthy.

    Are you looking to sell or buy a new home? Let Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate® walk you through the process.

  • What You Should Know Before Putting In a Plunge Pool

    Swimming pools add beauty and luxury to a home, but not every property is designed to accommodate a sprawling pool. Plunge pools, as an alternative, have become popular with homeowners who want the sparkling and refreshing benefits of a pool but lack the space for a traditional one.

    Have you considered putting a pool in your yard? Maybe a plunge pool is the right choice for you. Part of the beauty of these unique swimming pools is that they’re fairly adaptable to any space. You can create a square, rectangular, or circular plunge pool to fit almost anywhere—a small yard, patio, or deck. But, although plunge pools are generally easier and cheaper to construct than a standard pool, there’s much to know about them before you build.

    So let’s dive into what you need to know before putting in a plunge pool—what it costs, the benefits, and how much maintenance is involved. First, though, let’s clarify what a plunge pool is and how it differs from a regular swimming pool. After you’ve read what you need to know about plunge pools, you may be ready to break ground or decide that one of these pools is not the luxury you thought it was.

     What Is a Plunge Pool? 

    A plunge pool—sometimes called a dipping pool—is a shallow and compact pool designed for light swimming but mostly for cooling off and relaxing. You may have seen a plunge pool at a spa or resort; many luxury villas have private plunge pools in every accommodation.

    Plunge pools are becoming popular in residential settings. They can be more space-appropriate and affordable than traditional swimming pools, and they often require less time to construct.

    Plunge pools come in various sizes, shapes, and depths, which are easy to customize if you find the right pool builder. You can even personalize a plunge pool with the finishes you like, such as black rock for the pool’s bottom or imported title around the edge.

     How Does a Plunge Pool Work? 

    Since a plunge pool is essentially a smaller version of a standard pool, you use it in many of the same ways: cooling off, swimming (light), and splashing around. Plunge pools can sit above or in the ground, and they’re constructed of materials similar to a regular pool, such as concrete, vinyl, or fiberglass.

    A plunge pool will have a filtration system like a large pool—a pump pulls water through a skimmer and drain, then through a filter and back to the pool via return water jets. You’ll find chlorine and salt-water versions of plunge pools, just like bigger pools.

     What are the Benefits of Plunge Pools? 

    Plunge pools offer many benefits in terms of design, use, cost, and time. Here are some of the reasons why plunge pools are popular with homeowners.

     Require Less Space 

    A plunge pool is only slightly larger than a hot tub—typically no more than 20 feet long and eight feet wide, and less than five feet deep with a flat bottom. Many homeowners who don’t have the space for a large swimming pool can easily fit a plunge pool into a small backyard.

     Cheaper to Install 

    Plunge pools take less materials and labor to install than a regular pool since they’re generally less than half the size. You may be able to find a builder who’ll construct a plunge pool for as little as half the price of a traditional pool. Highly customized plunge pools can set you back a bit of money, however.

     Cheaper to Maintain 

    Ongoing maintenance is cheaper for a plunge pool. You’ll use less water, chemicals, and energy to run the pool’s pump or the heater during cold months. And, since plunge pools don’t circulate as much water through the filtration system as a large pool, they experience less wear and tear on parts.

     Easier to Care For 

    Plunge pools require less chemicals than larger pools, so you won’t spend as much time monitoring chemical levels. Also, you won’t have to set aside as much time cleaning leaves, debris, and insects from the water.

     Better for Certain Situations 

    If you want a pool for physical therapy, a plunge pool may work wonderfully for you. They offer a great hydrotherapy experience since you can change the small amount of water from warm to cold and back to warm again fairly easily. Plunge pools can be great for families with kids since the water is shallower than a regular pool (however you should never leave a child alone in any pool, even if they can see above the water when standing on the bottom or if they can swim).

     What Are the Drawbacks of Plunge Pools 

    While installing a plunge pool has many benefits, there are some drawbacks. You may find that plunge pools:

    • don’t have the same visual impact as a traditional pool

    • fit fewer people than you prefer (especially if you like to entertain)

    • aren’t great if you’re an avid swimmer (you can do meaningful laps in a plunge pool)

    • add too much to your property’s energy and maintenance costs

    Generally, a well-maintained plunge pool can add enjoyment and value to a home (properties with saltwater plunge pools tend to sell 1.5% faster than homes without a pool). You can build a plunge pool sustainably with eco-friendly materials and LED lights, cutting down on energy usage when compared to a traditional or non-sustainable plunge pool. Homeowners can pay for a plunge pool in many ways: cash purchase, vendor finance, or personal or home-equity loan.

    Are you looking to sell or buy a new home? Let Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate® walk you through the process.

  • The Best Solar Lighting for Outdoors

    Solar lighting for outdoors solves a multitude of problems. It brings a warm glow that enhances any outdoor space, and many solar lights packages are easy to install and durable. Whether you are shopping for lights to improve the ambiance of your entertaining area, want to illuminate pathways for your guests, or need motion lights for enhanced security, there are budget-friendly options that you will love. Read on as we reveal some of the best options for solar lighting for outdoors.

    Solar Landscape Path Lighting

    If your primary goal is to brighten your driveway, the walkway to your front steps, or backyard pathways, solar lighting for outdoors can be an affordable and eco-friendly way to illuminate otherwise deeply shadowed areas. While there are many options to choose from, The Spruce are fans of the “Hampton Bay No Voltage Solar Landscape Path Lights.” The editors loved that these path lights were “weather-resistant and produce 10 lumens of light—which is bright enough for hiking and reading—and have an eight-hour run time when fully charged.” They also get high marks for durability, and they arrive with ten lights rather than the standard packs of six to eight.

    Do you have a long pathway that needs brightening? You may want to choose the “GIGALUMI Solar Pathway Lights.” They come with larger solar panels, and, as The Spruce explains, “their height and larger structure make them a strong pick for anyone hoping to brighten a large area with fewer lights.” They look like elegant lanterns, and they act as a perfect complement to traditional home styles.

    Lamp Post Fixtures

    Do you love the idea of having a classic lamp post fixture at the end of your driveway to welcome guests to your home? Now, you can put up a post with a solar lamp, allowing you to fulfill your design goals in an environmentally friendly way. Of the affordable options currently available, the editors at Better Homes & Gardens give the nod to the “Kemeco Solar Post Light Fixture.” The Magazine reveals: “In addition to a 3-inch-diameter post, you can also place the solar light on a flat concrete surface with the included mounting base.” This durable option is made of textured glass and metal and comes in white or black for a classic look.

    Motion Sensor Security Lights

    Unlike solar activated lights used for ambiance, motion sensor lights are primarily used for security. The “Ring Solar Floodlight Outdoor Security Light” caught the attention of the editors at Better Homes & Gardens because of its Smart features. The Magazine advises: “Whenever it detects movement within 45 feet, the weather-resistant floodlight will automatically turn on its bright lights for however many minutes you choose. You can change this setting (as well as set schedules, adjust brightness, and control the device) by using the Ring app on your smartphone.” If you already have an Echo device at home, you can also use that to communicate with the lights.

    The Spruce is also a fan of the “Sunforce Solar Motion-Activated Outdoor Triple Head LED Area Light” for security. It is hard to beat the amount of light that it generates. The Magazine raves: “This area light gives off an impressive 1,000 lumens of illumination”… with a “built-in motion detector [that] identifies movement in a 180-degree range and within 30 feet, and you can adjust its detection distance and light duration.”

    Vintage-Inspired Solar String Lighting

    Few things enhance an outdoor entertainment space’s warm, welcoming feeling more than string lights. Also known as bistro lights, these vintage-inspired bulbs add to the ambient lighting in your backyard or patio in the dreamiest of ways. Better Homes & Gardens is a fan, and the “Brightech Ambience Pro Solar String Lights” are among their favorite ways to add instant character. The Magazine adores this particular set because it “has an antique-looking aesthetic with exposed LED Edison bulbs,” which can be easily installed “over a patio via poles, along a fence, and under a pergola for a magical ambiance under the stars.” The entire strand is charged from a single panel installed in the ground or clipped to a deck, fence, or trellis.

    Floral Pattern Lights

    There are several solar lighting options that cast shapes or patterns, making for an even more intriguing visual display than your standard light. Enter the “BeauJardin 8 Pack Solar Pathway Lights,” which caught the eyes of The Spruce editors. Like the best solar lighting for outdoors, these lights are weather-resistant. As the Magazine reports, “A rustproof stainless steel pole and glass light shade protect the solar battery and lightbulb, and the solar panel charges during the day for eight to 12 hours of illumination.” But what makes this style of light really stand out is its shade. It casts eye-catching floral patterns that are sure to charm.

    Modern Farmhouse Lights

    For a modern farmhouse aesthetic, mason jar lights offer a picture-perfect answer to your outdoor lighting needs. Better Homes & Gardens raves about the “Gigalumi Hanging Solar Mason Jar Lights” and named them among the best decorative options for solar lighting for outdoors. Ideal for the drier climates of the Desert Southwest (the lights may not be 100% waterproof), these mason jar solar lights can hold a charge for up to eight hours (there is a small panel on top of the screw-on lids) and give off a warm white glow. Each jar features a wire handle, which means they can be hung in a number of different ways – a real bonus. Better Homes & Gardens suggests: “You can get creative by hanging the jars on tree branches in the backyard or shepherd’s hooks along a pathway. The lighted jars can also be used as lanterns by keeping them flat on a table or patio.”

    Color-Changing LED String Lights

    When My Domaine was reviewing a variety of color-changing lights, they struggled to find multi-colored solar lighting for outdoors that didn’t feel “too novelty.” Pottery Barn to the rescue! The editors at My Domaine were enchanted by the “Pottery Barn’s Color-Changing LED String Lights” because the company puts you in control of the color palette. The Magazine reveals: “Each strand ships with a remote, which you can use to activate 14 different color-changing modes. Toggle between monochromatic and analogous color palettes, and remember that you can default to classic warm white at any time.” Giving you the power to change the atmosphere of your outdoor space is a huge bonus. And you’ll cheer for their durability and the energy savings that these joyful solar lights bring.

  • Hanging String Lights for Outdoors

    One of the best ways to dress up a patio, porch, or backyard is to add the perfect display of string lights for outdoors. It’s a simple and reasonably inexpensive way to bring much-needed illumination to your space and an instant boost of charm. There’s just something about the warm glow of the lights that elevates the ambiance of any area, whether the goal is to create a private spot for entertaining friends, relaxing with family, or adding a hint of romance for date-night drinks. To help you begin the transformation, we reveal some of our favorite ways to create a magical oasis by hanging outdoor string lights. 

    Before You Begin Hanging String Lights for Outdoors

    Before you make any purchases, take a moment to assess your goals for your balcony, yard, or patio. Do you want the lights to highlight an entertaining space? You’ll need to plan your anchor points and determine how far apart each bulb should be to illuminate a long dining table properly. Whereas a small conversation pit or cozy outdoor relaxation nook will have different needs – perhaps something softer with a more intimate glow. Whatever your goals, deciding your priorities before you shop or start to hang the lights is the key to saving money and time.                                                                             

    Choose the Right Style of String Lights

    Today, there are so many different styles of string lights for outdoors. You can choose ones that fit your home’s architectural style or select ones that mirror your personality. If you love vintage-inspired bulbs, you’ll find dozens to choose from, including the Edison, which is among the most popular options for outdoor entertaining. Do you have access to an outdoor outlet? If not, you’ll want to focus on battery-operated lights or solar-powered options. Expert Jeff Manning advises Martha Stewart Living that people opt for “LED lights or light ropes that are resistant to the elements—and that can change colors for occasions.” High-quality lights will stand up to surprise snow, wind, and rain. They can also handle the scorching temperatures that arrive early and stay late into the year in the south and the desert southwest. 

    Find Your Anchor Points

    The easiest approach to hanging outdoor string lights is to use at least one, if not more, existing anchor points. This might be your porch columns, the side of your house, trees, a pergola, or a sturdy privacy fence. The Spruce recommends using existing anchors when possible because “not only does this eliminate the job of making posts, but existing anchor points tend to be solid, permanent, and better integrated into your yard’s footprint.” 

    If you have your heart set on enlivening your space with string lights but don’t have multiple existing anchor points, you do have the option of putting in freestanding posts. The Spruce explains: “Setting an 8- or 10-foot two-by-two in a concrete-filled broad-base container produces an anchor post sufficient to hold one end of a 25-foot run of overhead lights. This can be paired with another anchor post or with a solid existing anchor point.”  

    Support the Cords

    Try to avoid hanging your string lights by the cords alone. This can considerably strain the cords, which invites damage, particularly when weather rolls in. Instead, The Spruce recommends using “wire rope and eye bolts to support the cords.” There are also several brands of string lights for outdoor use that include loops as part of the bulb housing, making it easy to screw the bulb directly into an anchor point or run a support wire through it. 

    A Word of Caution

    Always choose safety first. Even when your string lights are certified for outdoor use, the experts warn Martha Stewart Living to never hang them “over recreational water spots, like swimming pools or hot tubs.” Should the lights accidentally fall into the pool, it could pose a potentially serious hazard.  

    Select Your String Light Formation

    You want to make the most out of your bulbs, so choosing the best formation for your space is critical. Southern Living loves using a zigzag design when working with a large backyard or garden. Why? “[This] look covers more ground than a standard linear style. Just know that if you don’t have a fence framing your yard, you’ll need to install multiple anchor points.” For larger yards, Southern Living also applauds the idea of elevating the ambiance by focusing on perimeter lights; “perimeter lighting (coupled with distinctive flooring) can help establish a separate space for dining,” although you will likely need additional table lights for evening meals. 

    Simple crisscross formations are among the most affordable options as they are perfect for illuminating dining tables or square spaces with the fewest number of lights. However, if you have a fence or pergola that can anchor them, creating a waterfall effect with a cascade of string lights will yield a tremendous amount of light as a backdrop to your outdoor entertaining space, and it will dazzle your guests.

    Is your conversation or dining space already beautifully framed by a garden or trees? Rather than loosely draping outdoor string lights, consider wrapping them around the trees instead. The Spruce adores the idea of creating bejeweled trees set aglow by twinkling lights. Light wrapping works on most trees, even palms, as “trunks wrapped with white or red lights show off their vertical, upright forms, drawing the eye upward toward the night sky.” Wrap from the bottom upward and ensure even spacing. Use a ladder to continue the twinkling lights up and over odd-shaped branches and limbs to put the perfect finish on this strikingly magical vision.

  • Cultivating a Pet-Friendly Yard

    The key is to create a pet-friendly yard, where dogs and cats can have their freedom without risk to their well-being or your property. Of course, you wouldn’t want to leave them to their own devices for hours on end, but a well-thought-out plan will save you from having to be a “helicopter” pet owner.

    What Plants are Harmful to Pets?

    Better Homes & Gardens provides a list of plants that are harmful to dogs, including azaleas, rhododendron, tulips, foxglove and lily of the valley. Some of these are also toxic to cats, and others include daffodils, amaryllis and ivy. Plants that have sharp objects like thorns or spines (think rosebushes or cacti) can also harm pets by wounding them. Those wounds can also become infected, which can cause very serious problems for furry friends.

    When planning a pet-friendly yard, it is best to become familiar with all the potentially harmful plants in your yard. It is also wise to have a good look at your cat or dog when they come back inside. If they are drooling, vomiting, twitching, have a strange odor or are acting in an unusual way, a call to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) could be warranted.

    A Pet-Friendly Yard Master Plan

    Continuing along the safety theme, it may be a good idea to install a fence if the pet will be outside on their own for any significant periods of time. Not only does it protect them from escaping into the street, it keeps unwanted predators from getting in. This may not work for cats, who are known to be good climbers. In any case, make sure that your pet is always wearing a collar that includes their name and your contact information.

    Your dog will appreciate having his or her own doghouse, which will provide shelter from the heat and rain, as well as a comfortable place to spend time. Otherwise, be sure that there is plenty of shade for them to rest under when they need to take a break. Dogs also like wide-open spaces, so be sure to leave them enough room to run around.

    Dogs and cats both love to explore, so you might also consider creating a path for your pet to meander down. Smooth rocks, brick, concrete and flagstone are all easy on paws, but rocks or pebbles will make more of a mess. Mulch is another choice, but this can get dug up and kicked around.

    Safe Trees, Safe Plants

    There are many safe trees that dogs like, such as crepe myrtle, red maple and – of course – dogwood. Pups also do well with Gerbera daisies, zinnia and petunias. Dog-friendly shrubs include rose of Sharon, forsythia, lilac and mock orange.

    Cat owners will be happy to know that some of the best-known cat-safe plants are snapdragon, sunflower and bamboo. Herbs like basil, mint and dill are thought to benefit cat health, so go ahead and plant those, as well, along with some catnip.  Again, if  you are unsure about a plant or tree’s toxicity to your pets, check with the ASPCA website.

    Think Like Your Pet

    To create a truly pet-friendly yard, you have to think like a cat or a dog. They love to explore, dig, hunt and hide, and they tend to get into more trouble when they do not have any opportunities for structured play. You might want to build a dog run if you have enough room; this can be done by enclosing part of the yard with a fence and lining the ground there with artificial turf. If you have a cat, Martha Stewart likes the Kittywalk outdoor cat run.

    Cats need to scratch and stretch their claws, so you can install some vertical logs or scratching posts to save your trees. Kitties also love to perch in high-up places, so try building them a safe spot they can access easily that is no more than 8 feet from the ground. The landing area should be soft – avoid putting perches above concrete or asphalt.

    Canines and felines will all appreciate a selection of well-chosen pet toys in the yard, too. They might also enjoy an obstacle course, tunnels to run through and other equipment that can turn your yard into a pet-friendly playground. Use your imagination!

  • Planning Your Spring Vegetable Garden

    The key to a successful spring vegetable garden lies in the planning stage.  Once you have the spot picked out, you have to prepare the ground, create a layout, get vegetable ideas and buy supplies and plants. For the best chance of success, choose easy-to-grow vegetables like lettuce and zucchini. You can expand your horizons by adding some herbs and fruit plants, as well.

    If you are starting the plants from seeds, you will have to have the right containers to start them indoors. Otherwise, buy young plants with established root systems. Depending on what USDA plant hardiness zone you live in, certain vegetable plants will be recommended for spring planting.  Martha Stewart explains that warm-season crops like beans, tomatoes and eggplants do best in the heat, and some vegetable plants have longer growing seasons than others.

    planting seedsGrowing Plants From Seeds

    Martha Stewart also advises gardeners to check the plant-by dates when purchasing high-quality seed packets to ensure that they are for the current year. You can use any type of container for planting seeds, but it must have drainage holes. You may wish to plant several seeds in larger pots, which is a convenient way to start them. Another choice is to use planting trays, which are divided into smaller sections.

    Use regular potting soil, a sterile, soilless mix, a seed-starting mix or make your own if you are a skilled gardener or growing plants with specific requirements. Do not add compost or topsoil into the containers at this stage, because either can ruin your seeds.

    Put your potting mix in a large bucket and add some water until it is moist. Place the containers on newspaper, fill them up with the mix and tamp down gently. Dig out the seed holes with a pencil, making them twice as deep as the seeds are thick.

    The containers can be covered with clear plastic wrap to encourage germination, though you may wish to poke a few holes in the plastic to avoid mold growth. Place the containers or trays in a warm room by a sunny window. You can also use grow lights, provide the full UV spectrum of light to your seedlings. Mark the containers with labels so you don’t mix up the plants. Check them daily and water as needed – you can also add some diluted fertilizer when they begin to sprout.

    Making a Garden Blueprint

    Take some graph paper to draw out your garden plan before you do any digging. Vegetable plants like tomatoes and corn can grow quite tall, and you don’t want them to block the sunlight from their companions. You do not have to start with a large number of plants, because you can also add more later if you have the space.

    The number of inches required between the same kinds of vegetable plants varies, and you can find vegetable spacing guides online. Zucchini needs about 24 to 28 inches, while spinach only needs 2 to 4. If you are planting multiple rows of vegetables, these distances also vary; check the guide or your seed packet for this information, as well. You will need room to walk back and forth between your plants if planting in a traditional rowed garden.

    You can dig stakes into the ground at the ends of your garden rows, and connect each one with string. This will help you dig the plant holes in a straighter line. If any of the plants came with information tags, stick those in the ground alongside them.

    Gardening toolsPreparing The Garden Soil

    If you want to transplant seedlings outdoors, plan ahead by placing them outside two weeks before the planting. Leave them out for a few hours at first, and gradually build this up to strengthen them. Your plants will need a sunny garden that gets from six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day.  Do not choose a spot that gets a lot of wind, because this could damage the plants and keep pollinators like bees away.

    The best kind of soil for vegetable plants is packed with nutrients. The best way to ensure this is to mix in organic matter like compost or manure when the soil is moist (not wet). Check the soil for rocks and weeds, and rake them off and away. Then, use a shovel to loosen up the soil, digging down to 8 to 12 inches.

    Spread at least 2 to 3 inches of compost or manure onto the soil. You can work it into the earth if you like, but this is not necessary. You can level out the soil with a rake, or build up the beds slightly. Now you can dig the holes and start getting those plants in the ground. Before you know it, you will have plenty of fresh produce to bring to the table.

  • How to Transition Outdoor Living Spaces from Fall to Winter

    More and more, people enjoy their outdoor living spaces even after the snow begins to fall. Modern conveniences and some classic options have allowed homeowners and renters to transition from fall to winter without missing a step. And they can do this while still focusing on the comfort of their family and friends. Read on for some of our favorite tips for making much-loved outdoor living spaces winter-ready.

    Shine a Light on Your Outdoor Living Spaces

    As fall transitions into winter, there is no getting around the fact that it gets darker much earlier. When getting your outdoor living spaces winter-ready, the first thing you need to do is to add appropriate lighting. If your yard or patio is already reasonably well illuminated, you can focus on making small changes – adding solar table-top lanterns that can be moved where needed, installing path lighting, and assessing how weatherproof your existing lamps are. Southern Living advises those prepping their outdoor spaces to consider the elements before making purchases: “Rain dripping on an ordinary light bulb will cause it to crack. Bulbs designed for exposed outdoor use, such as PAR lamps, feature heavy-duty glass that withstands breakage.” 

    Are you interested in having your space take on a romantic tone? Picture draping ball bulb lights from tree branches, across pergolas, or from your home to the back garage or shed. The editors at Martha Stewart Living are fans of the affordable LTD Commodities Bulb Solar String Lights: “Available in both white and multi-colored, these ball bulb lights are an easy, festive way to light up your yard.” And while they are a delight for the holidays, they aren’t so season-specific that you can’t keep these magical lights up all year long.  

    Winterize Your Outdoor Furniture

    Do you know if your outdoor furniture can withstand the elements? If you were like many people who bought new patio or yard furniture in the last year, you might want to check to see if the furniture can handle rain and/or snow. If you are thinking about buying new furniture to make your outdoor living space into a wintertime oasis, make sure it is made from sturdy, weather-resistant materials like teak, coated iron or steel, or recycled all-weather plastic/resin. 

    Real Simple points out that “you’ll get the most life from your cushions if you bring them inside as much as possible.” If you can’t do that, consider investing in cushion covers so that you don’t have to worry about drying cushions out every time you want to use them during the winter (or a rainy spring). If you are in the market for new cushions, choose ones that are durable and made from “solution-dyed acrylic, which is designed for outdoor use and resists UV rays, moisture, mildew, and staining,” or “spun polyester with a UV-protective coating [which] dries quickly and is less expensive, but isn’t as resistant to fading.” 

    Turn up the Heat

    Have you been eyeing firepits with longing for the last couple of months? Now is the time to install one in your backyard or on the patio. While years ago, you may have been limited to one particular style of wood-burning fire pit, today, you have dozens of options for wood-burning and propane models. If you plan on doing a lot of entertaining in your outdoor living space (and you have the room), choose one that offers a table-like surround that can support drinks and snacks. If you are searching for something smaller, with a more rustic feel, consider something like “Martha Stewart’s Bedford Wood-Burning Round Fire Pit [which provides] intimate, cozy, wood-burning warmth for an evening in the backyard.” 

    Standing liquid propane heaters are also terrific for directing heat to your guests. You have undoubtedly seen the larger industrial models at restaurants, but home-use standing heaters are easily moved and can be situated wherever you need to turn up the heat. They are ideal for outdoor dinner parties and other sit-down celebrations. Couple the heaters with a hot cider toddy or cocoa and a fleece blanket, and your guests may never want to leave.

    Are you thinking about making a more permanent addition to your outdoor living space? It may be time to invest in building an outdoor fireplace. Midwest Living raves about the idea and celebrates today’s options. Among their favorites: a “three-sided fireplace [with] views [that] are hot from almost anywhere in the yard,” an outdoor fireplace with “flowing lines of brick and stone [turning] the back of a house into a thing of beauty and warmth,” and a “Spanish-style two-sided fireplace, [which] heats two seating areas.” 

    Take Cover

    It’s not too late to add cover to your outdoor living spaces. Heather Napier, Marketing Director for Backyard Discovery, tells Martha Stewart Living, “‘[investing] in a pergola or covered gazebo is also a great way to offer protection from the elements and create an inviting outdoor space.’” Pergolas and gazebos can often be constructed over a weekend and are an affordable way to enhance your outdoor experience, even during the winter months. 

    If you already have an outdoor living room that boasts a roof or fabric cover, try incorporating curtains as the season changes. Curtains can help guard against the icy wind as the temperature drops. They also help you retain the heat that you are generating from your outdoor fireplace, fire pit, or heaters. Just be sure to weight them so that they do not blow near the flame, should the wind pick up while the fire is lit.

    Prepare Your Garden 

    When transitioning outdoor living spaces from fall to winter, you want to prepare your garden. Preparations now will make your space feel festive and alive, even during the dead of winter, and they can make your transition into spring that much easier. Southern Living recommends bringing in your tender plants, turning off sprinkler systems, and “[mulching] over marginally hardy plants.” Cleaning up the vegetable garden will get it ready for spring, and planting winter-friendly specimens like Winter Jasmine, Camellias, and holly bushes will make your space look like it is thriving. 

    Finally, Southern Living cautions gardeners to remove all their clay pots from their outdoor gardens. Why? The Magazine warns: “Clay pots absorb and release water — they “breathe” — which is why plants grow so well in them. But when wet clay pots freeze, they develop small cracks that eventually become big cracks and the pots shatter.” Store them inside to avoid the worst of winter so they will be ready when spring arrives and a new cycle of planting (and entertaining) begins.

  • The Best Patio Container Gardens Ideas

    The best patio container gardens serve as eye-catching and vital additions to your outdoor space, no matter its size. They can revitalize shaded apartment patios or bring lush privacy to sunny backyards. The key to success is knowing what plants grow best in your region and which containers will not only be visually pleasing but supportive of your chosen plants. If you are ready to get started, read on as we reveal our favorite patio container garden ideas.

     

    Choosing the Best Containers

    While you might assume that the first step is to shop for the plants you want to feature on your patio, experts argue that your first purchase should be your containers. Flora Grubb, owner of Flora Grubb Gardens in San Francisco, believes that because the pots, trays, wine barrels, and raised gardens are an investment, it’s best to start there and then build your patio container garden around them. She confessed to Martha Stewart Living that she leans toward big pots; “Large pots make a statement, and most plants are happier in them in the long run.” Starting big means that it is unlikely that you will have to transplant your choices into bigger containers as they thrive, and plants typically need less watering when they are housed in larger pots. 

     

    However, Grubb does have one important warning before taking those large containers home. She recommended to the Magazine that people “[take] a photo of where [they] want to set containers and [bring] it to the nursery.” You’ll want a sense of scale so that you don’t completely overwhelm your patio space.

     

    Next, get an idea of what your climate zone is before you take out your credit card. While you might love that gorgeous indigo ceramic planter or classic terracotta container to be an anchor for your patio garden, they may not last long in regions that experience long winters. Ceramic, clay, and terracotta can crack because the water inside the pots can freeze and expand. If you want to take the chance, be sure that the pot has ample drainage holes and is kept off the ground in winter. Of course, if you have the space, simply bringing them inside and keeping your plants thriving under grow lights is also an option until spring rolls around again. 

    Succulent Container Garden Ideas

    Unless your patio is enclosed and climate-controlled, you will have to make some decisions about which plants to include in your container garden based on your region’s weather. For example, areas in the southwest can experience scorching summers and drought conditions. Succulents do exceedingly well, and the pros at Southern Living have their favorites. The Magazine is a fan of designing patio container gardens with at least one long-leaved blue agave standing on its own. As they explain, a “succulent garden is a perfect example of having individual plantings in single containers, allowing each to reflect its unique leaf shape and form complemented by the architecture of the container.”  

     

    Bring on the Herbs

    Is your goal to create a container garden that is a match for your culinary skills? You can opt for single containers of various depths to grow the perfect herb container garden or choose a large planter and fill it with complementary plantings. While individual planters will allow you to grow herbs with significantly different water and sunlight needs, a single planter can be both dramatic and perfectly pragmatic. The trick to single planters is to choose herbs that don’t steal soil minerals from each other but rather work in harmony.

     

    The editors at Southern Living applaud planting “fragrant rosemary, basil, and lemon grass, [which] accent soft blue plumbago in [a] tabletop setup.” The lemon grass takes center stage in this arrangement as it grows the tallest, with flowering plumbago added around it. Rosemary and basil take the outermost position, “alternating the two if you wish or placing them on opposite sides of the container.” This addition to your patio is ideal when placed on an outdoor dining table. Not only can you clip herbs for cooking, but your guests will get to enjoy a unique and fragrant centerpiece. 

     

    Real Simple also favors the idea of incorporating herbs into the best container gardens; “water-loving basil and curly parsley make good partners, whereas rosemary, sage, and oregano all prefer a slightly drier environment.” Just be sure that their containers have excellent drainage, and if they are exposed to intense sun and heat, as they would be in certain Southwestern or Southern states, be sure that they don’t dry out in their containers. 

    Grow Thriving Vegetable Gardens

    Vegetables are also a terrific option for container gardens – you just have to adjust your planting schedule to a time that is best for your climate zone. For example, if you live in Southern California, and you want to grow vegetables from seeds in your container garden, vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, and sugar snap peas can be planted in September, but orange and red sweet peppers are best planted from December through March because the intense sun and heat in SoCal will burn the pepper plants before they have a chance to flower when grown on an outdoor patio. Martha Stewart Living recommends choosing vegetables that not only don’t sap each other’s nutrients but fit well in the same pots. As the Magazine explains: “Plants that hang over the side will leave room for plants that require more pot area, like leafy greens.”


    Stage Your Fruiting Plants

    You might be surprised to hear that there is a wide variety of fruiting plants, shrubs, and dwarf trees that can be grown in large pots on your balcony. These plants can serve as visual anchors when surrounded by smaller plants and often showcase fantastically colorful blooms before fruiting. Remember that half wine barrel planter that caught your eye? While it will require considerable planting mix, the half wine barrel could be an appealing planter for Meyer lemon trees, dwarf avocado trees, or blackberry bushes.

    Tomatoes are a delight, but they do require room for their deep roots and additional support (such as a trellis), as well as access to bees to produce the maximum quantities of fruit. If you have your heart set on growing tomatoes, a raised garden planter is your best bet. 

     

    Add Vibrant Annuals

    The best patio container gardens can offer you a colorful retreat. It is one of the reasons why Southern Living loves including vibrant annuals in its designs. Does your patio feature a trellis or pergola? Southern Living suggests dressing the base with containers of petunias. The Magazine’s advice: “If you choose white petunia, its fragrance will be intoxicating, while if surfinias enhance your garden, you’ll be amazed when they bloom all along their stems.” 

    Define Your Patio With Ornamental Grasses

    If your patio isn’t already defined by a pergola or other framing architecture, you may want to consider creating definition with the addition of strategically placed containers. Real Simple enjoys the idea of separating your patio from your yard with a thriving container garden, whether you opt for rectangular planters or many individual pots. One of their favorite container garden ideas involves the planting of ornamental grass because no matter where it is employed, “matching pots planted with ornamental grass lend drama.”

     

    Hang Baskets With Cascading Plants

    Adding hanging baskets from patio columns or pergola beams can lend a sense of privacy and definition to your outdoor space. Hanging planters are among Martha Stewart Living’s favorite container garden ideas because of the variety of growing options they present. The Magazine recommends lining a basket with “with canna or hosta leaves” and then planting “sun-loving Calibrachoa, and [enjoying] the sight of them brimming out of a better-looking basket.” 

     

    Meanwhile, Southern Living embraces the idea that the best patio container gardens might be going modern with hanging fiberclay planters filled with succulents and purple fan flower. Why the fan flower? The Magazine explains that the “fan flower is unique because all its blossoms have their segments on one side.” The boldly colored flowers thrive in the more tropical climates in the South, where they can flourish throughout the year.

  • Creating Patios that Serve as Gathering Spaces

    Spring is well underway, and summer is just around the corner: How does your patio shape up? If it looks a bit rough around the edges, sparse or outdated, you may want to make it more welcoming. It does not have to cost you a small fortune, as there are many exciting, inexpensive backyard patio ideas that will refresh your outdoor patio and turn it into a fabulous gathering space.

    How Can I Perk Up a Small Patio?

    If you have a smaller space, you can start by adding a trellis around it for an attractive border. Choose some well-made, well-priced patio furniture that will fit in the area. A charming bistro table set and a matching umbrella could create a romantic little nook for you and your loved ones. Just make sure you leave enough room to move about comfortably.

    If you want to be even more creative, you can paint the patio floor, if it is made out of concrete. Older patio furniture can be given new life with a can of spray paint as long as you buy the right kind. You may also need primer and paint brushes for a project like this. Also remember to put some thought into the outdoor lighting and sound setup on your patio. Candle lanterns and string lights will make things look more inviting, and Wi-Fi speakers can add background music.

    Small patios can also be given new life by adding water features. Small patio fountains can go a long way toward creating ambiance. Buy a fountain pump from a garden center and place it in an urn. Surround it with some pretty flowering plants, and voila! –you have created a miniature, relaxing oasis.

    More Backyard Patio Ideas

    Midwest Living also suggests adding flowering plants to outdoor patios. You can shop for standing planters and colorful outdoor vases to place them in. Midwest Living also recommends UV-protected outdoor rugs. These can make patios feel homey and comfortable, as long as you remember to keep them clean and maintained according to the manufacturer’s directions. For an extra dose of coziness, you can also tuck a chiminea into one corner; these take up little space and provide warmth.

    If you have an unattractive wall or fence bordering the patio, you can purchase some screening that will look much more appealing. This is also referred to as “outdoor wallpaper,” and it is often sold at home and garden centers. Should that idea not be suitable, try camouflaging the wall or fence with tall potted plants.

    The ground can also be revamped with some pea gravel. Before laying it down, you will have to install landscaping fabric (also inexpensive) – this prevents mud and weeds from coming through. You can use this gravel for the whole patio, or to accent focal points like planter arrangements.

    An Outdoor Mini-Bar and Seating

    Your guests will love an outdoor patio bar. You can actually make this yourself, out of cement blocks, cedar boards, screws and concrete glue. The base is made from the cement blocks and cement glue, and the top is made from the boards. This easy DIY project from Better Homes and Gardens takes about three hours and only requires about five different tools.

    You may want to add a few outdoor bar stools to use as seating here. Also take a good look at any chairs and couches you may already have. Patio cushions do not last forever, as they are outside in the sun and rain (if you forget to bring them inside). Replacing the cushions is much more affordable than buying new furniture.

    Look for patio cushions that are designed to withstand the elements, and feel free to mix solid colors with patterns. You can also invest in a waterproof outdoor storage box. Take off the cushions before it rains and store them inside, then simply pull them back out when ready to use again. Your cushions (and your wallet) will thank you for it!

    A Few Final Touches

    Many homeowners understand that the best way to encourage outdoor gathering is to bring some of the inside out. As mentioned, rugs can add decorative interest and comfort. You can also get some cozy blankets and drape them over your seating. Mix-and-match outdoor pillows are another decorative touch that will make your guests feel right at home.

    To make guests want to linger longer, treat them to real tablecloths and dishware. Cloth napkins and light stoneware dishes are not expensive, and they can be tossed in the laundry or dishwasher afterwards. When all is said and done, you, your friends and family will want to spend more time outside on the patio than in your house.

  • What Type of Patio Furniture is Best for You?

    A carefully planned outdoor patio will get used more, and it can turn into a lovely gathering space when the weather cooperates. In order to create this kind of sanctuary, you need a welcoming, sunny space with enough room, good food, libations and the best patio furniture for your needs and budget. You don’t have to spend a fortune to achieve this, but you should not skimp on quality, durability or comfort, either.

    Choosing the Best Patio Furniture

    Before shopping for patio furniture, know first that form needs to follow function. In other words, how do you plan to use the patio? Some homeowners will want a top-of-the line barbecue and a table for eight as the focal points for entertaining. Others will lean more towards soft chairs they can sink into, and a more romantic ambience.

    Couches, side tables and fire pits are perfect for outdoor dining and cocktail parties. If there is enough room, you can set up a conversation area plus a separate reading nook that can serve as a small, private refuge. Can’t decide? There is no reason why you can’t create a versatile outdoor patio that does it all (or almost all), even with limited space.

    Patio Furniture Priorities

    Continuing along the function theme, outdoor living is all about relaxation, so your patio furniture should be easy to care for. Heavy and bulky pieces are hard to move, frustrating to clean and they can rust. Opt for all-weather wicker, cedar, teak or metal instead. To make your patio seating more comfortable, choose some cozy outdoor cushions or pillows with removable covers.

    You can even add a rustic outdoor blanket when the temperatures dip down; just remember to take everything in before it rains. Speaking of which, you can pick up an inexpensive outdoor storage bin to toss the cushions in when you need to. Keep them inside during the cold winter months if that applies to your region, however.

    Once you have moved on to the shopping phase, it is wise to try out the seating before buying. Remember, it all has to look and feel appealing. Some patio sets have plush cushions included, so make sure that the fabrics are weather- and fade-resistant. Of course, they won’t last forever, but higher quality means longer-lasting comfort and durability.

    Best Patio Furniture Materials

    Many people prefer wood patio furniture for its rustic, homey look. Choose durable, water-resistant grains like eucalyptus or teak, otherwise you may have to seal the furniture every year. Wood furniture may also be prone to cracking, splitting and rotting over time.

    Some of the best patio furniture is made from aluminum, which is lightweight, easy to clean and does not rust. Look for pieces with UV-resistant finishes, powder coating, seamless welds and rust-proof hardware.

    Wrought-iron patio furniture is definitely heavier, but it is lighter and more modern than old-fashioned versions. Still, it is harder to move because of its weight.

    Best Patio Furniture for Small Spaces

    Is your patio on the small side? Worry not; Southern Living emphasizes that size is not an indicator of greatness. Do not put large or bulky patio furniture on smaller patios and balconies, as this will overcrowd them. Find furniture that suits your space. No matter how much room you’re working with, start by picking a statement piece to serve as a focal point, and accessorize from there.

    A wicker lounge chair can be a lovely way to start, and you can add a side table, potted plants and a footrest. This can be just enough in tiny spaces, offering a nice little escape when you need it. Small loveseats also look nice, as does seating with built-in storage on the bottom, like a bench. A bar-height dining set with two or four chairs is a great way to open up the space. You can also try folding chairs, which do not take up a lot of room.

    Working within Your Budget

    Patio furniture can be expensive, so you may want to set a budget before making purchases. While it is fine to purchase a few inexpensive resin tables or chairs for when you need extra seating, these should not be your main pieces. Buying cheap pieces can be wallet-friendly at first, but before you know it, you will have to buy things all over again.

    Bargain-priced wood, metal and wicker can also be ready for the trash after just a few years. Do your research before buying, and look for patio furniture that is well-reviewed and affordable. You can spend less on accessories, like lighting, outdoor rugs, plants, cushions and blankets. Also seek out furniture that can serve multiple purposes. This is another good way to save money on outdoor patio furniture.