Tag: Facebook

  • 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!

    Ask a Pro: Carson Arthur’s Outdoor Sweeps Edition - bhgrelife.com

     

    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

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    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.

  • Ask A Pro Q&A: Carson Arthur’s Outdoor Sweeps Edition

    Missed our Facebook Q&A on the best outdoor design, advice, and gardening tips with outdoor design expert and Dream Team member Carson Arthur? Never fear! We’ve gathered up the answers from the expert himself in our latest Ask a Pro. 

    Ask a Pro: Carson Arthur’s Outdoor Sweeps Edition - bhgrelife.com

    Q: I am trying to eradicate spearmint from a very small garden, but it is covered. I’ve put most of my plants in pots so the roots don’t get mixed with the mint. I just keep pulling the mint. Is there a better strategy?

    –Tara P.

    A: Oh no. That’s evil stuff! Unfortunately, the mint sends roots under the ground making it tough to pull out. Instead, bury the entire area with 7 layers of newspaper (working around the plants you want to save). Cover the newspaper with mulch and voila! An effective mint barrier that will smother the noxious weed and safely biodegrade into the garden.

    –Carson Arthur

    Q: Hi Carson. I recently planted a jalapeno plant as well as some cilantro in my small garden. Do you have any tips on how to best grow these plants specifically? Thanks!

    —Victoria D.

    A: Hot! As in, they love it hot! The more heat the better. Consider doing a 6″ cardboard ring around the bottom of pepper plant to allow it as much exposure as possible without any competition from other plants.

    –Carson Arthur

    Q: I have a 12-foot square area that we have tilled that is literally sandy soil. Mostly sand and rocks. What will grow here? We can’t plant grass because there is just no way to get rid of the rocks. Help!

    —Pam M.

    A: Tricky problem. I would consider doing a mass planting of some decorative grasses. They will handle the soil and give you amazing fall colour. Look for Northern Rye as a great option.

    –Carson Arthur

     

    Check back for Part 2!