While you might not have lots of plants blooming in winter, it's still important to make sure the ones you do have growing are properly protected.

I've asked gardening experts for the plants you should pay special attention to, from winter flowers to fresh herbs. They've also explained everything you need to do in order to make sure they carry on thriving.

If you're following a month-by-month gardening calendar and want to ensure you've got everything covered for winter, these are all worth knowing.

1. Flowers

If you have bright and bold blooms adding color to your small backyard ideas, it’s a good idea to keep them up protected during winter.

“Azaleas, rhododendrons, and hollies should be wrapped in burlap to shield from wind and snow,” explains Scott McLeod, gardening expert and owner of McLeod Landscaping Inc.

“Their broad leaves dry out even when roots stay warm,” adds Marco Picano, gardening expert and co-owner of Picano Landscaping.”

He also advises that evergreen varieties will need burlap on the trunks, as the greenery can be damaged by cold and wind.

I recommend grabbing a roll that you can cut to size, such as the Burloptuous Gardening Burlap Roll from Amazon which is the site’s choice.

2. Herbs and vegetables

If you’re growing herbs and veggies like I am in my small vegetable garden, it’s a good idea to insulate their roots.

“Mulch protects herb and vegetable roots, insulating them under 6-8 inches,” says Scott.

He adds that rosemary, thyme, and parsley will survive without this, so if you just have these, it might not be worth investing in a bag of mulch.

It’s not just useful to have rosemary in your backyard for Christmas dinners — it’s one of the plants that will repel pests, too.

3. Container plants

While you can keep some plants outside, if you have any in containers, you need to make sure you move them indoors for this season.

“This is because their roots are exposed and will freeze outside,” explains Scott. “Water them thoroughly before moving inside, then check the soil and water lightly when the top few inches are dry.”

You can always keep them all together inside on top of a plant shelf, such as on the Bamworld Plant Shelf on Amazon that is multifunctional and durable.

The key is preparing before winter and using proper techniques to ensure your plants thrive for years to come.

“My advice is to get to know your plants and specific winter risks in your area. Protect sooner than later, and you’ll have happy, healthy gardens,” Marco finishes by saying.

Want to carry on scouting out seasonal plant care tips? Learning how to winterize houseplants and what the best flowering plants for winter are may also come in useful.

Plant care essentials

Our pick of six of the best purple indoor plants offers a cool and edgy look for your interior. If you like the idea of mixing things up a little it's a great way to add contrast to the green jungle vibe.

Choose bright purple plants for vibrant color or darker, inky ones for a more contemporary feel. We asked plant experts to share their thoughts on the best purple indoor plants that both look good and are easy to care for so they don't take up too much of your time.

Follow their suggestions to help you create an interior plantscape with the best indoor plants in a range of plum and violet shades.

Best purple indoor plants

Before you make your selection why not consider fast-growing indoor plants too, as well as the best tall houseplants to add height, and flowering indoor plants to add color, especially if you like purple flowers too. Now find out what our expert-led top tips for the best purple indoor plants are.

1. Velvet plant

The gorgeous purple foliage of the wonderfully named velvet plant is as plush as you'd expect. Also known as purple passion, the color and texture of this stunning houseplant means it will soon become a firm favorite.

Easy-going velvet plants like bright light and love being on a sunny windowsill but will need protection from scorching afternoon sun. The more light, the brighter and more vivid the purple color of the leaves will be. 

Velvet plants do best in well-draining soil, and like being watered thoroughly then drying out completely before the next watering.

Expect rapid growth (the good news is this means you will be able to take lots of cuttings to get more of these beauties) and keep your plant compact by deadheading regularly and snipping off any leggy growth. We think it's one of the best purple indoor plants around.

2. Purple oxalis

The rare and sought-after Oxalis triangularis plant has gorgeous distinctive purple leaves that will close at night and open again in the morning. They look just like butterflies. This wonderful plant also has edible flowers that taste like lemon.

This plant is easygoing and forgiving, too. If you miss a watering, it will soon bounce back. 'It prefers bright indirect light to medium indirect light,' says home decor and plant expert Emily Auffrey. 'Water about once a week and usually twice a week in the spring and summer. Cut off blossoms once they have died, close to the bottom of the stem. Just make sure to keep it away from AC and heat vents.' 

This plant loves a humid location so stand it on a saucer of pebbles to keep the surrounding moisture high, especially during winter. Let your plant rest during the cooler months by reducing the amount you water it. Then you'll see lush growth in spring.

3. Tradescantia 'Zebrina'

If you like trailing plants then tradescantia 'Zebrina' is the one for you. Fast-growing with an easy-going nature, it's a great choice for new plant parents too, and will soon be trailing happily from your shelves, room divider or boho macrame hanger with lots of lush, leafy growth. 

Snip off any leggy bits from your tradescantia 'Zebrina' regularly to encourage a more bushy plant. Pinch off the tips of the stems to encourage branching, and trim back any wayward stems. Try propagating your plant to get babies by taking stem cuttings and rooting them in either water or soil. 

While predominantly purple the leaves feature silver and green colors too, making a pretty pattern. These plants aren't fussy about where you put them but grow best in indirect light. Avoid positioning your plant in direct sunlight, as it can cause the leaves to burn and wilt. 

You only need to water them when the soil is dry. Give them a good drink then let the water drain through thoroughly.

4. Coleus

With their attractive bold-patterned leaf markings a few of these colorful plants make a great addition to your houseplant collection. As well as purple this striking foliage plant comes in shades of pink, white, cream, yellow, and maroon, with several colors often mixed together on the same leaf. 

Coleus are easy to grow too, often reaching full size in less than a year. The main story with these plants is the foliage. The flowers are nothing special and should be snipped off otherwise they will set seed, which will reduce the amount of lovely colorful leaves you get on your plant.

Position your plant where it will get plenty of light but in summer move it out of strong sunlight as this will cause leaf color to fade. Their frilled, puckered leaves mean they are one of the best purple indoor plants you can invest in.

5. Begonia

There are hundreds of different types of begonia to choose from but if you want one with purple leaves a good place to start is with one of the Begonia rex varieties. Some are a mix of dark purple hearts, borders or ribs, with splashes of green, pink or cream in the mix, which is why they're known as 'painted leaf' begonia, while others are pure purple.

‘Begonias have been a longtime favorite of plant collectors because there are always new ones being created,' says plant expert Darryl Cheng. 'They are readily hybridized to produce new cultivars.’ 

For gorgeous purple shades try 'Nightfall', which has gorgeous puckered leaves edged by a thick purple band, with dark inky heart and ribs. It looks stunning against a background of light green. Meanwhile 'Black Heart' is a purple and dark red mix, or try 'Purple Curl' for a hit of pure plum.

6. Echeveria 'Purple Pearl'

'Echeveria plants are the darlings of the small succulent world,' says plant expert Johanna Silver. 'They are always rosette forms and might be fuzzy or lumpy, or have frilly tips, a powdery coating, or a metallic sheen. They come in a range of colors, from palest pink to the deepest purple.'

With its small but fleshy leaves and delicately purple tones, ‘Purple Pearl’ is the one to go for if you're looking for a dark shade.

Like most succulents, echeveria prefers full sun, isn't keen on draughty locations and enjoys being watered thoroughly then letting the soil dry out completely. Give ‘Purple Pearl’ the sunny spot it craves and the color will darken significantly, taking your plant to the next level of deep purple.

What to shop

Now you have all the inspo you need to choose the best purple indoor plants why not push out the search and include some leafy loveliness with the best tropical indoor plants and the best low-maintenance indoor plants for living rooms to keep you plant collection fuss-free as well as on-trend.

Learning how often to water your plants is super important for making sure they thrive properly. Even tropical plants like monstera need to be watered frequently.

I've asked gardening pros exactly when you should water yours and top tips for doing so. “Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the leaves to droop and develop brown edges, so it's important to get your watering pattern right,” says Lydia Beaumont, gardening expert at Gardeners Yard.

If you're taking care of a monstera plant, keeping it hydrated is key for ensuring it flourishes and grows leaves long-term.

How often to water monstera

In terms of watering this indoor plant, it just depends on what the temperature is like in your home, which tends to change from season to season.

“I water my monsters every 7-10 days in summer, letting the top inch of soil dry out between waterings,” says Joe Gerrior, gardening expert and owner of Gerrior Masonry & Landscape Construction Corp.

He continues, “In winter I water every 10-14 days as monstera growth slows. Check the soil with your finger — if dry an inch deep, it's thirsty.”

Top tips for watering monstera

When watering, Joe also suggests pouring enough so it flows out the drainage holes, moistening the entire root ball. “Never leave a monstera in sitting water — make sure to empty excess within 30 minutes.”

After this, it’s a good idea to check the soil before hydrating it. “Allow the top 1-2 inches to dry before watering again,” suggests Lydia.

Misting a few times a week increases humidity, which the large leaves love. “With proper light, water, and humidity your monstera will thrive, producing split leaves,” Joe adds.

By watering your monstera at the right time, you can ensure that one of the best tropical plants thrives in your home no matter what season it is.

Want to continue finding useful plant care tips? Learning how to propagate monstera may also come in useful.

The first plant that I ever bought was a pothos plant, and five years on my leafy friend is still alive and thriving. I've got it to a point now where it's flourishing, but it has gone through ups and downs throughout the years, and I wish I'd known how to properly care for it.

If you've just become a proud plant parent to a pothos plant, I've got you covered with tips and tricks from experts. From looking after it the moment it comes home from the store to long-term maintenance tips, they've come up with a host of useful advice. “This green beauty is well-known for its resilience, as it prospers in even the most hostile environments where other houseplants don’t,” explains Anastasia Borisevich, plant expert at Plantum.

I've got a range of indoor plants in my house and I have to say that pothos plant is one of the easiest and prettiest out there.

1. Initial care after bringing your pothos plant home

When you first bring your pothos plant home, it’s important to inspect it for pests or damage. Once you’ve done this, you can throw away the old soil and start tending to the roots.

To avoid damaging the roots, gently loosen the dried soil with a wooden stick or your hands and pull out the plant along with the root ball. “Remove spent soil and wash the roots with running water. From here, you can cut off any rotten, black, fragile, or dried parts,” explains Anastasia.

Once you’ve done this you can either place the plant in a narrow container with water for a few days to allow roots to develop or place it in a new plant pot, depending on how healthy the initial roots are.

“Repot the plant in a container with well-draining potting mix, as store-bought pots may not offer ideal drainage,” says Lydia Beaumont, gardening expert at Gardeners Yard.

2. Proper pothos plant placement

After you’ve put your pothos plant in the right pot, you can then find a suitable spot for your low-maintenance plant.

“This trailing vine has attractive heart-shaped foliage. You can keep this gorgeous plant in a pot or let it trail on your bookshelf or down a wall,” adds Anastasia.

“Pothos thrive in bright, indirect light but are also highly adaptable and can tolerate low-light conditions,” says Lydia.

Just make sure to avoid placing them in direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. I placed my pothos plant on the windowsill facing my south-facing garden and had to move it as this happened to me.

3. Watering your pothos plant

When you first take your plant home, you can give your pothos plant’s leaves a spritz of water to give it a boost.

From here, Lydia says make sure to let the soil dry out slightly between watering — just like you need to do when taking care of a monstera plant. You can check the soil moisture level with your finger or a wooden stick.

“Water the plant when the top 1-2 inches of soil feels dry. Let excess water drain to avoid root rot,” she says.

Anastasia agrees, adding, “On average, pothos plants need to be watered every three days at temperatures 68–73°F (20–23°C).”

She continues, “However, it's best to keep an eye on the condition of the soil since the watering frequency depends on the temperature, humidity, and amount of water used for watering.”

You can also spritz your pothos plant leaves with warm water to help boost the humidity levels.

4. Long-term pothos plant care

The beauty of pothos plants is that they’re able to thrive beautifully long-term with the right care.

“Fertilize every 2-3 months during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer,” suggests Lydia.

It’s also a good idea to prune yours to maintain shape and encourage fuller growth. “You can propagate cuttings in water to create new plants,” she adds.

It’s also smart to wipe your leaves down with a damp cloth occasionally to keep them dust-free and improve photosynthesis. Just make sure to just use water and not any cleaning supplies, as these can damage your plant.

By following this care advice, you can ensure that your pothos plant flourishes for years to come (just like mine has!).

Want to carry on learning plant care tips? You may also want to learn how to care for money tree, which are also beautiful leafy gems.

Useful pothos plant care buys

If you’re on the lookout for a new houseplant to add to your home, a rubber plant is one of the best indoor plants that you could pick. Not only are they one of the easiest plants to care for, making them ideal for beginners or those who have struggled to keep certain plants alive in the past, but they also have some wonderfully glossy and interesting leaves.

Although rubber plants are incredibly hardy and low-maintenance, there are a few steps that you’ll need to take to ensure that they thrive indoors. And thankfully the experts have shared their top tricks and tips with us below.

HOW TO CARE FOR A RUBBER PLANT, ACCORDING TO THE EXPERTS

1. Place in bright, indirect light

While rubber plants are easy houseplants and can tolerate lower light conditions, this may slow their growth and lead to leggy stems. So, it’s best to aim for a room or location in your home that has bright but indirect light, as placing the plant in direct sunlight can cause its leaves to become scorched.

2. Provide a warm and humid environment

According to Kelly Dyer, indoor houseplant expert at Patch Plants, “a good rule of thumb is that if you’re at a comfortable temperature indoors then your rubber plant will be comfortable as well.” And they typically like a consistently warm environment. The experts agree that anywhere between 15°C to 25°C is the optimum temperature for them indoors. Just make sure not place your rubber plant next to anywhere too drafty or beside heating or cooling vents.

In terms of the humidity, as rubber plants tend to be native to more tropical climates, they “appreciate moderate humidity levels,” Chris Bonnett, founder and plant expert at Gardening Express, admits. “If the air is too dry, the edges of the leaves may start to brown. But you can increase humidity by placing a humidifier nearby or setting the plant on a tray filled with water and pebbles.”

3. Water moderately

"Regular pruning helps maintain the shape of your rubber plant and encourages new growth," Camilla Lesser, Development Manager at Essential Living, notes.

And the best time to prune, in general, is "spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut just above a node or leaf joint. You can also remove any dead or yellowing leaves to keep your plant looking its best."

4. Fertilize during the growing season

The experts all agree that during the growing season of spring and summer, you should aim to treat your rubber plant to "balanced liquid fertiliser diluted to half strength," once a month, Chris proposes. Since the plant's growth slows down over the winter, there's no need to continue this into the colder months.

5. Prune when needed

You might want to prune your rubber plant if you’ve noticed any dead or damaged leaves. The same can be said if it is starting to grow slightly out of control or could do with some shaping. “Pruning also encourages bushier growth,” Chris affirms.

A pair of sharp scissors, pruning shears or secateurs will do the trick. Just remember to wear a pair of gardening gloves as you do so as the sap from the plant can irritate sensitive skin.

6. Repot regularly

“Rubber plants are fast growers,” Kelly admits. So, if their roots are starting to poke out of their original pot, this is a tell-tale sign that it’s time to repot. “If you do feel like your rubber plant needs to be repotted come the springtime, do so using houseplant compost. And remember to drain your rubber plant well before putting it back in the decorative pot to avoid letting water sit at the bottom, as this can cause root rot,” she continues.

Otherwise, you’ll probably only need to “repot your rubber plant every 1-2 years or when it becomes root-bound,” Chris adds. Simply “choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one,” to give it sufficient space to grow.

8. Dust the leaves routinely

As you might expect, because of their large leaves, rubber plants can be prone to getting dusty if you don’t keep on top of your cleaning checklist. And this “can block light absorption,” and stop the plant from breathing freely, Chris warns. All you need to do is give them a quick wipe with a clean cloth every so often to stop any dust from building up.

9. Watch out for pests

There are a couple of houseplant pests that rubber plants can be prone to, namely “spider mites, mealybugs and scale insects,” Chris advises. If you do notice any pests, particularly on the undersides of the leaves, treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil as soon as you can to stop the pests from spreading any further.

10. Provide support for growth

As rubber plants grow taller, they may need support stakes to keep them healthy and upright. A wooden dowel or pole should keep them upright. All you need to do is "gently tie the stems to stakes to prevent them from toppling over," Chris concludes.

FAQs

Why are the leaves falling off my rubber plant?

There are a few different reasons why your rubber plant’s leaves might be falling off. For example, “if a plant doesn’t have enough energy to thrive, it will shed leaves,” Kelly explains. And frustratingly, overwatering and underwatering can cause its leaves to drop, so getting the balance just right is key.

What you'll need

Philodendrons are a great houseplant to add to your home, particularly if you’re looking for easy to care for plants. But even though it is generally rather low maintenance, there are still a few things that you’ll need to keep in mind to help them thrive indoors and the experts have revealed their top tips with us.

So, whether you’re already pretty green fingered or are more of a beginner, a philodendron could be a great choice. And here’s everything you need to know…

HOW TO CARE FOR A PHILODENDRON, ACCORDING TO THE EXPERTS

1. Choose the correct pot

“While the foliage of your philodendron may seem large, you don’t actually need a big pot for the plant to grow. In fact, the container only needs to be slightly bigger than the plant's root ball, no more than a few inches at most,” reveals Lucy Rhead, gardening enthusiast at Gtech.

“You also want to choose a pot that promotes good drainage, such as a terracotta pot. This ensures that the philodendron doesn’t suffer from getting overwatered, which can increase the risk of root rot. What’s more, a terracotta pot also keeps the soil cool, helping your philodendron thrive indoors,” she continues.

2. Pick the right soil

“A well-draining potting mix is key,” suggests Steven Bell, managing director at Paving Shopper. “Look for a mix that includes ingredients like peat, perlite, and pine bark, as this blend retains moisture without becoming waterlogged, providing the right balance for your philodendron's roots.”

3. Recreate its ideal conditions

Choosing the right spot in your home for a philodendron is also essential, the experts agree. And even though it can survive in low light, it needs adequate light to thrive. While “direct sunlight may scorch your plant's leaves, a spot that offers indirect bright light, like a north or east-facing window,” Lucy affirms.

In addition to this, philodendrons like a humid and warm environment, which is why they are one of the best bathroom plants with them also faring well in kitchens, as the humidity levels are naturally a bit higher in these rooms. However, if your room is on the drier side, you can always use a humidifier to help out.

4. Tailor your watering schedule depending on the time of year

Even though philodendrons are one of the easiest houseplants to care for, you do have to get the balance right when it comes to watering them. For example, “using the same amount of water all year round will lead to overwatering and could cause damage to your plant,” Lucy warns. “As such, try to water more in the spring/summer when the temperature is higher (and the weather is drier), and then less in the winter when it’s cooler and damper.”

Steven concurs. “Overwatering is a common mistake that can lead to root rot. So, it’s always better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering with philodendrons.”

5. Fertilize every two weeks or so during the growing season

Ideally, you should be feeding your philodendron a balanced fertilizer every four weeks or so during the growing season, so over spring and summer. This will help the plant to grow taller and bushier and essentially keep it looking its best all year round.

6. Watch out for pests

Like many houseplants, philodendrons can be affected by pests such as spider mites, aphids and mealybugs. Because of this, you’ll want to keep an eye on the undersides of leaves, while also remembering to give them a wipe with a clean cloth every so often to prevent any further issues. We have an entire guide on how to identify and deal with houseplant pests, which has everything you need to know if you do find any pests on your philodendron.

FAQs

Should I trim my philodendron?

Even though “regular pruning helps maintain the shape and size of your philodendron while encouraging bushier growth,” Steven maintains, it’s not technically necessary to prune or trim your philodendron other than for aesthetic reasons.

If you want to cut back any leggy stems or yellowing leaves, use a pair of sharp, clean scissors, pruning shears or secateurs. And Steven recommends “pruning during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.”

What you'll need

Our seven of the best fast-growing indoor plants will soon add a lush jungle look to your interior to give you that Insta aesthetic. Another thing they all have in common is that they have minimal care requirements, as well as looking good of course.

It can be an expensive business filling your home with leafy delights so the answer is to buy the best fast-growing indoor plants while they’re still small then give them lots of TLC to make sure they put on some rapid growth.

To help you get the jungle look with the best indoor plants, our experts have picked the easiest ones that will reward you fast, plus shared all the top tips you need for looking after them.

Best fast-growing indoor plants

Before you bring any indoor plants home, think about how fast you want to green up your interior, as well as taking into account space considerations. Will you still be able to accommodate them in a couple of years time?

When looking for the best fast-growing indoor plants check out the best tall houseplants too for instant impact, as well as the best tropical indoor plants as these tend to be large and leafy from the get-go.

1. Philodendron

'The large, glossy leaves (some velvety ones too) and clean growth habit of philodendron has made them an all-time favorite,' says indoor plant expert Darryl Cheng, author of the The New Plant Collector: The Next Adventure in Your House Plant Journey. 'Some cultivars grow relatively quickly, which can be a blessing or a curse. You can bless your friends with cuttings in a short time (often within a year), but it may be challenging to keep up with a plant that keeps outgrowing your space!'

One of the most valuable indoor plants you can add to your collection due to their easy nature and fast-growing habit, philodendron can be grown as climbing vines on a moss pole or trailing vines allowed to drape from a hanging planter (macrame optional) or shelf. Either way, it’s easy to keep the plant manageable by trimming the leading growth.

As long as you keep philodendron out of direct sunlight, they will thrive in both light and dark positions, although if you choose the latter this may slow down their growth a little. 

Keep the soil moist during the warmer months, and allow it to dry out in winter. Feed monthly from spring through fall with a liquid fertilizer. Pinch out the tips of young plants to encourage plenty of new shoots at the base of the plant.

2. Monstera

There are few plants that command as much attention or loyal fan following as the Monstera deliciosa, also known as the Swiss cheese plant. 'This is the must-have houseplant of all the plants,' says indoor plant expert Kamili Bell Hill, author of Happy Plants, Happy You. 'The leaves of Monstera deliciosa are iconic. You can find this leaf pattern on everything from wallpaper and pillows, to rugs and clothes. If it's a large focal-point plant that you’re after, this is the one for you.'

Monstera are one of the easiest and fastest plants to grow indoors. A low-maintenance choice that's quick growing, plus of course the shiny green foliage looks amazing with all those 'fenestrations' (the proper word for that shredded effect you get on the leaves).

They are super easy to look after, as they thrive in bright indirect light, but are also okay in medium light conditions. Kamili's top tips for monstera care? 'Put your plant in a warm spot, give it plenty of moisture and an occasional liquid feed, and it will grow rapidly into a big specimen plant you can be proud of. It's only when they get larger that you get the more attractive holes in the leaves, so all the more reason to snap up one of these easy plants to nurture now.'

3. Spider plant

Fast-growing spider plants are a real favorite if you want quick and easy, and to multiply your plant collection fast. Their attractive arching leaves and slender flower stalks with tiny plantlets on the end (which look like spiders, hence the name) make a great addition to any room.

Find out how to care for a spider plant and you'll soon discover how incredibly resilient and adaptable they are too. They're not fussy about light requirements or where you put them and will quickly forgive you if you don't know how often to water them or simply forget.

They're also easy to propagate if you're looking to grow your plant collection. Simply snip off a plantlet, pot it up in soil, and it will quickly grow into a mature plant.

4. Hoya carnosa

The Hoya genus contains more than 500 species, so there are plenty to choose from. In their natural habitat, hoyas can be found climbing up trees.

'Many have diverse foliage, not to mention extraordinary flowers,' says Darryl Cheng. 'Hoyas can become an addictive and expensive hobby, with so many species and hybrids to collect. Thankfully, hoyas propagate relatively easily – all you need is a stem cutting with a node to get started.'

Easy to grow and take care of, the fast growing and very collectable trailing Hoya carnosa has exquisite clusters of waxy star-shaped cream flowers and dark green leaves on vigorous twining stems that can reach 15 foot or more.

Hoyas love a spot with bright, indirect light and humidity so your bathroom will be ideal. Given the right conditions it will develop into a large vining statement plant in a relatively short period of time. It's another one that looks good trailing down from shelves or in a hanging planter.

'Once you add any single plant from this genus, you will be hooked,' says Kamili Bell Hill. 'You will not be able to stop at just one, because they are so delightful. Of all the plant discoveries I have made, this is probably my favorite. You’ll add them for their foliage and obsess over them because of their otherworldly blooms.'

5. Fiddle leaf fig

Learn how to care for a fiddle leaf fig plant and you will soon be rewarded with a majestic house plant. They will grow as tall as you let them, generally between 6-10 feet, putting on between 1-2 feet a year.

There is still a huge trend for lush, outsized fiddle plants, so maybe you already have one but it's not growing as fast as you'd hoped so you want to take it to the next level. There a few easy things you can do to ensure your plant puts on inches more quickly.

Fiddles are hungry plants. Try feeding it more often, especially in spring and summer. By that we mean at least once a week with every watering.

Make sure you are taking care of how often to water fiddle leaf figs too. Treat your plant to a deep soak in a sink or the bath for a good 10 minutes every couple of weeks, especially if the soil seems to be drying out really quickly.

Consider moving your plant to a spot where it gets more light, and rotate it regularly to ensure all the leaves are benefiting, not just one side.

6. Pothos

Pothos is a vine-like plant that's a close relation of the philodendron, and its heart-shaped leaves also look great trailing down from shelves on room dividers or hanging planters.

This easy and quick growing houseplant, also known by the name Epipremnum, has the potential to grow between 12-16 inches in a month, so it definitely deserves to be on our list of the best fast-growing indoor plants. They're also super-easy to propagate.

'Try your hand at growing one up a moss pole,' says Darryl Cheng. 'Do it well and you’ll be rewarded with huge leaves as the plant climbs up. Most plants you will find in the genus Epipremnum are cultivars of E. aureum, but varieties of E. pinnatum are also interesting.'

For excellent growth, find a large enough window so your pothos plant gets plenty of indirect light. They are drought tolerant, so they can recover from a dry spell, but their growth could be hindered.

Find them in colors ranging from green with yellow streaks, to marbled white, or even minty green. Some fenestrations can be seen on newer leaves of E. pinnatum (they are in the same subfamily as monstera).

7. Boston fern

If you want to buy a small plant that puts on growth quickly then the Boston fern is a good choice. Give it the right care and its gorgeous fronds will bush up fast. As the plant grows into a more mature specimen its growth tends to slow down but by then you'll have a beautiful big plant anyway.

This classic houseplant will add an elegant touch to your interior that's hard to beat. It will thrive in a location where it gets filtered morning sun and afternoon shade. It also likes humid conditions so keep a mister handy to spritz the leaves or hang it in a planter in the bathroom.

Boston fern is one of the best air-purifying houseplants too, helping to rid indoor air of toxins. So it's a good idea to put one in your bedroom so you can enjoy the benefits of houseplants like this.

What to shop

Now you have all the intel you need on the best fast-growing indoor plants push out your search to find out how to care for houseplants to keep yours happy with all the info about where to position them, when to water and feed them, and how much light they need.

Did you know that if you own a monstera plant, you can make more without going to the store? They can be a little spendy, so this is an easy and budget-friendly way to add more greenery to your home.

I've asked gardening experts how you can propagate at home, and luckily all you need to is follow five easy steps and use simple and effective tools. The pros have plenty of useful top tips along the way that you can use for propagating monsteras and other plants.

If you've been caring for a monstera and want to bring this plant into other rooms of your house, this guide will come in useful.

Step 1: Choose a healthy cutting

The first step of propagating indoor plants is finding a stem with at least one node (the bump where roots form) and a healthy leaf.

“Make sure your cutting has aerial roots, as these stringy, brown roots don’t just look interesting — they’re critical for absorbing moisture and nutrients,” explains Matthew Wilson, gardening expert and CEO of Handy Gardeners.

“This will allow your new plant to establish itself more quickly,” he adds.

Step 2: Use clean, sharp tools

Before you start snipping away, make sure to check that your tools are as clean and as sharp as can be by giving them a once over with cleaning supplies.

“Cutting with dull tools can crush the stem, making it prone to infection. Use a pair of Felco Pruning Shears from Amazon for a clean cut below the node,” Matthew says.

He adds that it’s worth sterilizing your shears with rubbing alcohol, as this will help prevent any diseases from transferring to your plant.

Step 3: Pay attention to the water

Once you've cut your plant, you can place it in a glass bottle filled with water. It’s important to use filtered or distilled water to avoid chemicals like chlorine and fluoride, which can slow root development.

“Refresh the water every three days, as this oxygenates the water, encouraging root growth,” Matthew says.

Step 4: Wait for roots to grow

It’s important to use filtered or distilled water to avoid chemicals like chlorine and fluoride, which can slow root development.

“Refresh the water every three days, as this oxygenates the water, encouraging root growth,” Matthew says.

Want a little boost? He suggests adding a few drops of liquid seaweed extract (the Organic Liquid Seaweed and Kelp Fertilizer is Amazon's Choice) for a rooting supercharge. “It’s an old gardener’s secret, rich in trace minerals and plant hormones that accelerate rooting,” he adds.

“Using products like rooting hormone can also speed up root development,” adds Dennis Sons, gardening expert and owner of TN Nursery.

Step 5: Place in appropriate soil

Has your tropical plant grown roots? Great! Now it’s time to place it in soil, which you should make sure is well draining.

“Coconut coir is among the best, as it holds moisture well but does not become overly saturated, thereby avoiding rot of the roots and enhancing growth again,” Matthew explains.

By following these steps, you’re sure to have a new monstera plant baby you can look after properly.

“With these tips, you’re not just propagating — you have ensured your monstera is set for success in the long term,” Matthew finishes by saying.

Want to carry on propagating plants? Learning how to propagate a jade plant may come in useful, too.

As summer comes to an end, you should know which fall gardening tasks to tackle this year and there are actually a number of jobs that you can be getting on with. Not only is it wise to complete them before winter, when we’d much rather be wrapped up indoors, but it also sets you up for success for next spring.

While we have a month by month calendar of garden jobs to keep your garden looking its best no matter the season, we asked the experts which jobs should be at the top of our lists throughout September, October and November.

Whether you have a day off work or want to make the most of a long weekend, here are the ones that they recommend tackling first and foremost…

1. Plant spring-flowering bulbs

Fall is the best time to plant your spring flowering bulbs so that they have plenty of time to establish before the first frost of the year. Think daffodils, crocuses and tulips, to name just a few.

“The soil is still warm from summer, allowing the bulbs to sprout roots before the coldness of winter, ensuring a vibrant display come spring,” reveals Luke Dejahang, gardening expert and CEO of Crown Pavilions. Aim for a sunny spot with well-drained soil to grow your spring blooms.

2. Divide perennials

Speaking of plants, “if you have any overgrown perennials, fall is the best time to divide these,” says Graham Smith MCIhort, national sales manager at LBS Horticulture.

Dividing them will not only help them to grow better the following year but it can reduce the risks of diseases and pests. Simply “use a garden shovel or fork to lift the plant, and then separate it into smaller clumps. These clumps can then be replanted back into the ground, and ensure that they are watered in well,” Graham continues.

3. Apply mulch

“It's really important to protect your plants over the winter months so that they aren't affected by frost,” admits Morris Hankinson, director of Hopes Grove Nurseries. And “applying a layer of mulch to your soil is a great way of doing so, with fall being the perfect time to do it. Before mulching, clear all weeds from the area and water the soil. Then apply your mulch and make sure it's at least 2" deep before leveling out the surface.”

In addition to this, Graham recommends that you “apply the mulch when the soil is moist, and ensure that you have left a gap around woody stems or tree trunks to prevent rotting.”

4. Prep your lawn

The summer heat can take its toll on lawns and Nick Ee, BLACK+DECKER’s product and training manager, reveals just how important it is to aerate, scarify, and fertilize a lawn to keep it looking its best all year round.

He admits, “Scarifying removes dead grass, roots, and debris otherwise known as thatch, that blocks water and nutrients from reaching the soil. Removing this layer helps to prevent the lawn from becoming waterlogged and promotes healthier grass growth.” If you’re not sure how to scarify a lawn, thankfully we have a handy guide. “After removing debris, aerate the lawn for better soil and root health, then fertilize and seed bare patches for regrowth,” Nick concludes.

5. Get pruning

According to Susan Poizner, founder of OrchardPeople, “pruning in the fall, particularly in October or early November, is essential for shaping your fruit trees and removing any diseased or dead wood before winter.” You’ll also want to prune back any dead or diseased branches or leaves that you might have noticed more generally.

With a sharp pruning tool or pair of secateurs, make clean cuts to prune, with this helping “to improve air circulation and sunlight exposure for the upcoming growing season,” Nick adds. Just make sure to clean up as you do so as leaving this on the ground could potentially spread any plant diseases.

6. Collect and compost leaves

Even though seeing the leaves turn from green to rust makes us feel cozy and ready for the cooler months, it can be rather frustrating when your garden is covered in them. Before they start to build up too much and potentially block drains or “smother your lawn or plants, which can lead to disease or decay,” use a rake to gather them up, Luke explains.

“These leaves, when added to your compost pile, break down into nutrient-rich organic matter that enhances soil structure and fertility. By composting leaves, you're not only reducing waste but also creating a natural fertilizer that will nourish your plants in the coming seasons,” says Jade Oliver, interior stylist at Express Bi-Folding Doors.

7. Clean and repair your greenhouse

As the days start to get shorter, this reduces the amount of natural light that will be able to get through to your greenhouse veggies and plants. Take the time to remove any dirt, algae, or grime from the glass to give the light the best chance of breaking through.

While you do this, have a look to see if you need to make any repairs and check for damage. It’s much easier to do this before we arrive in the busy period of spring.

Monsteras are one of our favorite indoor plants but if you’ve found yourself asking how to care for a monstera, we’ve got you covered with this guide.

While there are a number of different varieties, the most common is the Monstera Deliciosa, with its glossy heart shaped leaves. But you might also be familiar with the Monstera Adansonii, which is also commonly known as the swiss cheese plant. But whichever variety you personally own or are thinking about buying, thankfully it’s relatively easy to care for them once you know how.

So, we spoke to a number of houseplant experts to find out their top tips and tricks for caring for one of the best indoor plants.

HOW TO CARE FOR A MONSTERA PLANT INDOORS, ACCORDING TO THE EXPERTS

1. Choose the right pot or container

Before you even get started, it’s important to choose the right pot or container to house your monstera. And buying one with drainage holes is key to prevent waterlogging. “A terra-cotta pot is ideal because it allows excess moisture to evaporate, preventing root rot,” another issue which can afflict plants if you’re not careful, admits Jane Dobbs, expert gardener and gardening team lead at Allan's Gardeners.

The container also needs to be of a size where the plants’ roots have plenty of space to grow, so it might be better to opt for one which has room for it to grow into, instead of one that is too small.

2. Use a nutrient-rich, well-draining soil

Once you’ve got your pot or container it’s time to turn your attention to the type of soil you use. “A good potting mix with good drainage is essential for Monstera plants,” says Jane. “With a mix of peat, perlite, and orchid bark, you get the right balance of moisture retention and drainage. However, you’ll want to avoid dense soils that can rot the roots.”

If you’re still not sure which one to buy, “a mix designed for aroids works well,” Jo Lambell, founder of Beards & Daisies, offers.

3. Place in indirect sunlight

If you’re wondering where to position your monstera in your home, “bright, indirect light is best for monsteras,” Jane says. This is because their leaves can become scorched if they sit in direct sunlight, whereas too little light can stunt their growth.

“A spot near a north or east-facing window, where the plant receives filtered light, is ideal,” according to Jo. And you can also create filtered light, even if your window gets direct sunlight, simply by using sheer curtain panels to diffuse the light a bit.

4. Provide a warm and humid environment

As a tropical plant, the monstera thrives in warm and humid environments. But if you don’t live in a part of the country that experiences both all year round, there are a number of ways to help recreate those conditions.

If the air in your home is dry, having a humidifier in the room can certainly help. Ideally, you should be aiming for a humidity level of around 60%, the experts concur. “Placing the plant on a tray of pebbles filled with water,” can also help, Jo explains.

As for the temperature, 60°F is really the minimum that you want your room to be, as any colder can cause damage to this plant, with the experts agreeing that the sweet spot is between 65 and 85°F. In addition to this, Jane warns that “monsteras don't like drafty windows, air conditioning vents, or radiators, because sudden temperature changes can stress them.” So, be sure to consider this when you get your monstera situated in your home.

5. Keep the soil moist but don’t overwater

“Monstera plants prefer consistently moist soil but should never be waterlogged,” Jo discloses. Because of this, you’ll want to “water your Monstera when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. Typically, this means watering every 1-2 weeks, but this can vary based on the season and indoor climate.”

A good tip is to “keep watering until water is running out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the plant's pot,” Graham Smith MCIhort, national sales manager at LBS Horticulture, remarks. “However, the soil should not be constantly moist and needs to be left to dry out between waterings.” So, you’ll want to get that balance right.

6. Fertilize when growing

You only really need to worry about fertilizing your monstera plant during the growing season, so over the spring and summer months. And the experts agree that every 4-6 weeks is best during this time of year with a balanced, water-soluble or liquid fertilizer.

You can reduce feeding in the fall and winter, when the plant's growth naturally slows.

7. Prune regularly

When it comes to pruning your monstera, you only really need to do this to control its size. So, if you’ve noticed that yours is getting a bit out of control, cutting it back even once a year should more than suffice.

You can also “remove any yellowing or dead leaves,” Jo declares. Remember to use a clean, sharp pair of scissors or secateurs to cut just above a leaf node.

8. Watch out for pests

If you happen to have plants of any kind, whether that be indoors or outside, knowing how to identify houseplant pests can really come in handy. This way you can treat them before they become a bigger issue.

When it comes to monsteras, “watch out for common pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale,” Jo says. And thankfully they “can be managed by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth, using insecticidal soap, or applying neem oil.”

9. Repot as it grows

If you already have a monstera, you might have noticed just how quickly it can grow and because of this, they will need to be repotted every 1-2 years. “When repotting, choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one and use a well-draining soil mix, such as one made for aroids or containing peat, pine bark, and perlite,” Jo explains. And “the best time to repot your monstera is during spring, as this is when the plant is actively growing,” Graham adds.

And if your monstera happens to reach around a meter in height, that’s when it might need some additional support to stay upright. “Consider adding a moss pole or trellis to provide something for the plant to climb, which will also encourage healthy growth,” Jo continues.

FAQs

Should I mist my monstera?

“Misting your Monstera is beneficial, especially if you live in a dry climate or if your home is heated in the winter,” Jane admits.

Regular misting actually helps to increase the amount of humidity around the plant, mimicking its natural tropical environment. “Misting every few days or when the air feels particularly dry should be sufficient,” Jo suggests. “However, be cautious not to overdo it, as excessive moisture on the leaves can lead to fungal issues. Alternatively, you can use a humidifier or place the plant on a humidity tray.”

While Jane also recommends misting in the morning “so the leaves can dry out during the day.”

If your yard could do with a bit of an update, Lily Collins’ Scandinavian-inspired garden offers plenty of inspiration.

The Emily In Paris star recently took to Instagram to share some snapshots of her mid-century Los Angeles home with her fans. But it was her multi-level outdoor space that truly caught our eye.

So, if you’ve been wanting to give your front or backyard a bit of a makeover for a while now, or are in the midst of designing your dream home and in turn, your dream exterior, it has certainly given us a number of garden landscaping ideas.

Step inside Lily Collins' garden

The actress, who shares the home with her husband Charlie McDowell, originally opened up her home to Vogue, with her admitting that by doing so she was able “to revisit all of the little details that make our house a home.” And the outdoor area is just as inviting as what you’ll find on the inside.

When speaking to Vogue, Lily describes her interior style as “mid-century California meets Scandinavian,” with this also extending to her outdoor oasis. And we can certainly see the inspiration that she took from these two approaches. But how can you get a similar look in your own garden? Keep reading to find out more.

How to recreate the look

According to the Vogue feature, the garden was “inspired by Piet Oudolf, the designer who did the famed grounds at Noma.” And this can be seen in some of the plants and landscaping.

“The key to achieving Lily's garden aesthetic lies in thoughtful layering and creating intimate spaces,” admits Loren Taylor, owner of Outdoor Fountain Pros. “When I design gardens, I often recommend starting with a variety of plants at different heights. This approach adds depth and makes even small areas feel luxurious and full.”

Starting with taller shrubs and plants towards the rear to provide a backdrop for medium-height plants in front, you can then finish it off with low growing varieties in the foreground. Think lavender, creeping herbs and lamb's ear. These choices can also be a great way to play with color and add a pop of interest to your garden.

And if you can, play around with different textures either. This might mean combining ornamental grasses with more traditional plants and shrubs, but having a variety will help to elevate even the smallest or most sparsely decorated garden.

Lily’s garden also benefits from the addition of a seating area, with space to relax and soak up the Californian sun. If you don’t already have a garden seating setup, adding one can have such a transformative effect on your yard. “By tucking a bench or a pair of chairs into a secluded spot, you're not just creating a place to sit; you're crafting a destination within your garden,” Loren suggests. And by picking reclining seats – such as this pair from Wayfair – which can be converted into a few different configurations, this allows them to serve a multitude of functions.

All it takes is a few simple additions to turn your space into your very own minimalist retreat, just like Lily’s.

Can you really grow garlic indoors? Yes you can and the good news is it's pretty easy to do. It's a great option if you love the idea of growing this kitchen staple but don't have a garden, balcony or other outdoor space that makes this possible. 

As well as bulbs you can successfully cultivate fast-growing garlic greens indoors as a handy and fast option you can snip to zhuzh up dishes.

New garlic bulbs are grown from the single cloves of an existing bulb so this doesn't take up a lot of space like seed trays do as they can be grown in pots. As long as you follow a couple of easy steps like choosing the right type of garlic bulb and giving them enough light to flourish you'll soon be harvesting your own crop.

Now find out how to grow garlic indoors and discover that homegrown produce always tastes so much better. All you need is a pot, some soil, and a bulb of garlic.

The best way to grow garlic indoors

Step 1: Source the right garlic bulbs

Find named varieties of garlic bulbs from a plant nursery or mail-order supplier and you should end up with a good crop. These bulbs are often called 'seed garlic' and are the best quality.

Planting garlic bought from the grocery store is not recommended as they might carry disease, are sometimes sprayed with a sprout inhibitor, and are not as fresh as seed garlic.

The two main types of garlic to choose from are hardneck and softneck varieties.

Softneck garlic is the more common variety you buy at the grocery store. It tends to have more cloves per bulb, grows well in a warm climate, and stores for longer. But it has less flavor.

Hardneck garlic is available in may different varieties, the cloves are bigger, and it grows well in a cold climate. In addition it has a good flavor but it doesn't store for as long as softneck garlic. 

Step 2: Trick the bulbs by faking winter

Garlic bulbs first need to be exposed to fake winter conditions before planting. Like many bulbs, they need a cold dormant period to develop. 

This process is known as vernalization. It sounds scientific but put simply all you have to do is expose the garlic to cooler temperatures for a specific period of time to trick it into thinking it's winter.

This is less important if you choose a softneck type, so for this reason they are often preferred for indoor growing as you can skip this stage. 

Otherwise put your garlic bulbs in a brown paper bag and store in the fridge for 6-10 weeks at a temperature of 39F, checking occasionally to make sure they haven't gone mouldy through exposure to excess moisture.

Step 3: Prep garlic cloves for planting

Prepping only takes a few seconds. Remove your bulbs from the fridge and separate the individual cloves from the main bulb by popping them out. Loosen them gently by applying slight pressure with your thumb and eventually the whole bulb will come apart. 

If you have a hardneck garlic variety you will actually see the neck running down to the base, and this can be removed to make division of the cloves easier. Remove any excess papery layers except the inner one covering the clove itself, as it's a good idea to leave this intact as it offers a layer of protection

Your garlic bulb may have already started to sprout but this is perfectly fine and nothing to worry about. Discard any cloves that are soft, discolored or smell strongly.

Step 4: Choose the right soil and container

You will need a rich, well-drained potting soil and the container of your choice, which will need drainage holes in the bottom. The depth of the container doesn't really matter as garlic is a shallow-rooted plant. Anything with a depth of 6 inches and above will work fine.

Choose a commercially prepared soil from the garden center and add 10% sand as garlic will thrive with this combo. Mix thoroughly then fill the container all the way to the top with the soil mix and compress it down about an inch.

Step 5: Plant the garlic cloves

You are now ready to plant the garlic cloves. They should be inserted into the soil pointy tip up, as this is where the sprout will emerge. Plant them an inch deep and 4 inches apart. 

Fill the container with more potting mix until it covers the garlic by about 1/2 inch, making sure you fill any spaces between the cloves. Press the surface down gently. 

If growing garlic for garlic greens only you can plant the cloves much closer together.

It's also a good idea to add a layer of straw mulch to garlic grown indoors to help prevent evaporation, and keep the soil moist and warm. 

Finally, water the newly planted garlic cloves. At this stage one good soaking should last your garlic a month. Water slowly until water comes out of the bottom of the container. Add more potting mix if you see any garlic cloves poking through.

The ideal place for the container is a south or west facing window where it will get 6 hours of sunlight every day.

Check the soil for moisture from time to time. Remember that too dry is better than too wet. 'Water garlic well while it's sprouting and the new leaves are forming,' says gardening expert Pam Farley, founder of BrownThumbMama.com and author of The First-Time Gardener: Container Food Gardening. 'Reduce the amount of water when leaves begin to die back.'

Step 6: Harvest and store correctly

After about a month your garlic will start to sprout, which is great news as it means your bulbs are viable. Garlic grown indoors will develop much faster than outside, where bulbs will still be in their dormancy phase until the spring thaw. If you prefer you can move the garlic outside once spring weather hits but otherwise leave it where it is.

Meanwhile you can snip off the green leaves, also known as green garlic, and use them in salads and other dishes. Generally garlic grown indoors can be harvested roughly 3 months ahead of garlic grown outdoors, so if you plant garlic cloves in fall you should be able to harvest them in spring. When the leaves turn yellow or brown it's generally a sign that your garlic is ready.

If you end up with a bumper crop it's important to store garlic bulbs correctly. 'After harvesting garlic you need to cure it for 2 to 3 weeks,' says New Jersey based organic gardener Resh Gala, the founder of @hundredtomatoes and author of Vegetable Gardening Made Easy. 

'Lay your garlic harvest flat on top of cardboard or sheets of newspaper. Alternatively place them on a drying rack and allow them to hang dry. After 2 to 3 weeks the outer skin will become dry and crisp. At this point you can brush off any excess soil, and trim off the stalks and roots with a sharp pair of scissors.'

Resh suggests storing your garlic bulbs in milk crates or cardboard boxes with holes poked in the sides for ventilation. Line with paper towels or newspaper then store in a cool dark place and use as needed.

Growing essentials

FAQs

Can you grow garlic in water?

You can also grow garlic in water. Any garlic bulb can be used, but it's best to use garlic bulbs specifically sold for growing. This method is generally used for garlic greens rather than garlic bulbs.

Separate the garlic cloves from the bulb in the same way as before and select the healthiest cloves to sprout in water.

Place the selected cloves pointed end up in a jar or other clear container. If preferred you can submerge the whole bulb in the water rather than separating the cloves and submerging them individually.

Add lukewarm water to the jar until the bottom of the cloves or bulb is covered. Transfer to a sunny spot, such as a windowsill, to give the garlic plenty of sunlight. You will need to change the water every couple of days or as soon as it goes cloudy.

The green garlic shoots should appear quickly and will be ready to harvest within a few weeks of when you started growing the garlic in water.

Now you know how to grow garlic indoors think about what else you can grow. How about growing fresh herbs indoors on a windowsill. Find out how to grow an indoor herb garden for fresh leaves all year round, and how to grow basil indoors for top tips on cultivating this favorite herb in your kitchen. Check out more indoor gardening ideas for inspiration on how to max up your growing space.

For those who love adding delicious herbs to culinary creations, finding out how to dry basil is a smart idea.

I've asked gardeners and homemakers how you can do this, and thankfully it only takes three steps. All you have to do is carefully prepare the leaves, hang them to dry, and store them properly.

Whether you've been growing basil yourself or have bought a pack from the supermarket that you can't use all at once, this will come in useful.

Good to know

Time: About 5 minutes to prep, 7 days to dry.

Difficulty: Easy.

Helpful hints: For the best results, choose a basil variety suited to drying with sturdy leaves like Genovese, Neapolitan or Sweet basil. “If you’re picking leaves, make sure to do this once the plant is mature and flowering for maximum flavor,” explains Amanda Schmitt, homemaking expert and owner of Life As Mama.

Drying basil essentials

• Basil — you can either get these this from your plant or buy these from the supermarket
• Twine — the Love, Laugh, Craft Twine from Walmart is under $2 and is made from jute
• Airtight containers — I recommend using a small mason jar, such as the Ball Regular Mouth 4oz Quilted Pint Mason Jars from Walmart which is cute and comes with 12pcs

1. Prepare the leaves

First of all, you’re going to need to prepare your leaves, whether you’re harvesting them from a basil crop or taking them out of a pack from the store.

“I gently rinse the leaves and pat them dry with a towel,” says Marco Picano, landscaping expert and co-owner of Picano Landscaping.

“From here, I bundle 3-5 stems together and secure them with kitchen twine,” he continues.

If you don’t have any twine, the Tenn Well Cooking Twine from Amazon is highly rated and made from 100% cotton.

“The key is not bruising the leaves when bundling and providing adequate airflow,” adds Amanda.

2. Hang the leaves up and leave to dry

Once you’ve got your basil all tied up, you next need to hang it up in your kitchen.

“I hang fresh basil upside down in small bundle, in a warm corner of my kitchen away from sunlight for 5-7 days until crispy,” explains Amanda.

If you don’t have anywhere to hang them, try taping them with masking tape to the top of your window frame, like I did. I used two layers of tape to ensure they stuck on.

Marco agrees, adding that it’s a good idea to check the leaves daily for any mold.

3. Store in an airtight container

Once dried, you can crush the leaves and store them in an airtight jar. “When I do this, I put the jars in my pantry for up to a year,” Amanda says.

“Dried basil has an intense flavor, so use about 1/3 of the fresh amount in recipes,” she suggests.

If you’re on a budget or have small kitchen storage, you can also store your basil in clear zip bags.

FAQs

What is the best way to dry fresh basil?

The best way to dry fresh basil is by hanging it up in a warm, sunny spot for 5-7 days, checking it each day for progress and for potential mold spots.

Is it better to freeze or dry fresh basil?

“Personally, I prefer drying basil to freezing as I find the flavor fuller,” says Amanda.

“However, if short on time or space, blanching then freezing whole basil leaves in an ice cube tray with water or stock also works well for up to 6 months.”

From here, you can simply add frozen cubes directly to simmering sauces or pesto.

With the proper care and storage, home-dried basil can be even more flavorful than commercial.

“The satisfaction of preserving the harvest from your own herb garden or kitchen windowsill makes it all worthwhile,” Amanda finishes by saying.

Want to carry on growing fragrant culinary picks at home? Finding out how to grow an indoor herb garden is also a good idea.

Mums are some of the most popular fall flowers, as they're vibrant, colorful, and can withstand cooler temperatures.

If you want to make sure that your mums carry on blooming throughout the season, I've got you covered with a range of different tips and tricks from gardening pros. Clever placement, thorough watering, and mulching are just a few of their favorite ideas.

For those following a month-by-month gardening calendar and wanting to maintain these blooms during fall, expert advice will come in useful.

1. Plant in the right location

Before you do anything else, make sure to locate the best area in your backyard for your marvelous mums.

“Keep mums blooming brightly in fall starts with planting them in a spot with plenty of sunlight and well-drained, fertile soil,” explains Scott McLeod, landscaping expert and owner of McLeod Landscaping Inc.

“You should make sure that they’re in a spot where they get at least six hours of direct light every day,” adds Matthew Wilson, gardening pro and CEO of Handy Gardeners.

You can also add compost to the soil to improve drainage before planting. Learning how to make your compost at home is a great way to ensure you have a never-ending supply of the good stuff.

2. Water properly

Once you’ve got your mums in place, make sure to keep giving them a good drink of water.

“I water the mums thoroughly after planting and during dry spells,” says Scott. “You can also use drip irrigation to provide consistent moisture, which mums need to produce abundant flowers,” Scott says.

He also recommends adding a balanced fertilizer at half the recommended strength every few weeks to give them an extra boost.

3. Add mulching

One of the best ways to protect your mums and ensure they carry on thriving is by adding mulching around them.

“Mulching around the base of the mums with pine needles or shredded bark helps the soil retain moisture and prevents weeds,” explains Scott.

“The mulch should be two to three inches deep, pulled back a few inches from the stems,” he adds.

Matthew agrees, recommending Scotts Nature Scapes Color Enhanced Mulch, available from Amazon. “This helps retain moisture in the soil, as well as insulation roots against low temperatures during the winter period.”

4. Make sure to prune

If you’re reading this at the end of summer, this tip might be a little late for you. But, if you are looking for blooming tips before this (congrats on being organized!), it’s worth pruning in summer.

Scott explains, “In July, I pinch back the mums by about one-third. This helps them grow bushy and compact, which leads to more flowers.”

For those reading this in late summer or fall, don’t stress — once the flowers start opening, you can keep pinching off dead blooms to promote continued blooming.

5. Provide cold weather protection

For those living in colder areas or if you find the weather randomly changes (it often does), make sure to have frost protection in place.

“In colder areas, I provide protection like straw, pine branches, or breathable fabric to help the mums for the following spring,” Scott says.

Properly caring for mums in this way will keep them blooming brightly into fall.

By putting these plans into place, you can ensure that your mums bloom for the whole season.

“I also recommend watching out for common pests like aphids and spider mites, and use gentle insecticidal soap to get rid of them,” Matthew finishes by saying.

Want to carry on caring for your yard this season? It’s worth scoping out the top fall gardening tips for every region in the US.

Hummingbirds are such a beautiful sight to see. One of the reasons they're so special is that you can't always see them — in fact, they migrate to Mexico and Central America during late summer and fall, before coming back north to the US in late winter and early spring.

If you want to help these fabulous feathered birds during this time, there are lots of things you can implement in your garden to help them along their journey. Providing water, hanging up feeders, and preventing window collisions are just a few of the tips gardening pros recommend.

For those wanting to attract hummingbirds and support them during their travels, these tips and tricks will all be useful.

1. Utilize hummingbird feeders

When you go on your travels, chances are that you have snacks in your bag or make plans to stop at a restaurant along the way. Just like us, hummingbirds need fuel during their trips.

“Grabbing a hummingbird feeder or two is the easiest way to attract them, as they’re designed to attract hummingbirds and are specifically designed for a hummingbird’s long beak,” explains Jeremy Yamaguchi, gardening pro and CEO of Lawn Love.

When shopping for a hummingbird feeder, Jeremy recommends looking for one that's red, as this color attracts them. “I would also recommend buying a feeder with a bee guard and an ant moat for added protection,” he adds.

For example, the Pennington Glass Red Hummingbird Feeder from Walmart ticks all these boxes, is dishwasher safe, and is made from UV-stabilized material.

2. Provide the right nectar

Once you’ve got a hummingbird feeder in place, make to fill it up with the right nectar solution

“One of the most important things you can do for migrating hummingbirds is make sure you fill any hummingbird feeders you have with appropriate food,” explains Ryan Farley, gardening pro and CEO of LawnStarter.

He continues, “A 1:4 mix of white sugar and water is best. Never use any dyes, and never use any other kinds of sweetener.”

This is one of the biggest hummingbird feeder mistakes you can make, as this can lead to fungal infections that will hurt the hummingbirds.

3. Plant native flowers

Enhance your backyard ideas by adding beautiful blooms that will not only attract hummingbirds but will also help you create cottage gardens.

“Incorporate plants into your garden design which are indigenous and rich in nectar content such as bee balm (Monarda), trumpet vine (Campsis radicans) or cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis),” says Matthew Wilson, gardening pro and CEO of Handy Gardeners.

He says these should be flowering during late summer through early fall, providing natural food sources required by the migrating hummingbirds.

4. Prevent window collisions

This trick is one you’ll need to go inside to do, but it is easy and will hardly take you any time.

“A simple way to help support migrating hummingbirds in your area is to make your windows less dangerous to them,” explains Rafi Friedman, president of Coastal Luxury Outdoors.

He continues, “Large picture windows and patio doors are especially problematic, as they'll become confused and crash right into them in some cases.”

Rafi says the best way to reduce this risk is to add decals and decorations to the outside of your windows (the Shawula Flower Window Decals from Amazon are a cute choice). Make sure to clean your windows properly before you do this, so they stick on properly.

“This will help hummingbirds (and other birds) recognize that there's something there and avoid it,” he adds.

5. Give them fresh water

As well as providing nectar to drink, it’s also a good idea to provide fresh water.

“Hummingbirds require clean drinking water as well as bathing facilities,” says Matthew.

He suggests setting up low fountains with gentle spray, as this can greatly attract them. For instance, the iFanze Solar Fountain from Walmart can be put in bird baths and is eco-friendly.

“If possible you can also create misting stations or drippers that mimic natural water sources loved by these birds,” he suggests.

By following these easy steps, not only will you be able to attract hummingbirds to your balcony or backyard, but you will also be able to help other birds who may come into your outdoor space.

Want to carry on making your garden suitable for these feathered friends? Learning how to make a DIY hummingbird feeder may also come in useful.

There are lots of reasons why it makes perfect sense to find out how to grow basil indoors. Growing this favorite herb indoors means you'll have a fresh supply easily to hand whenever you need it for cooking or garnishing dishes.

It also means you can grow basil all year round for a continuous supply, something that's much harder to do if you grow it outdoors as this is one herb that can be picky about weather, especially if you live in a cool climate. Plus of course, your basil plant is more likely to be bothered by pests in the garden. 

Find out how to grow basil and you'll soon discover that homegrown leaves taste so much better than bunches from the grocery store, which have a tendency to wilt and don't have that freshly picked quality that adds standout to your cooking. All you need is a pot, some soil, and a packet of seeds.

The best way to grow basil indoors

Step 1: Sow seeds in the right way

Once you've decided on the variety of basil you want to grow planting the seeds is easy. You can sow them straight into the pot of your choice. This means you don't have the bother of starting them off in tiny pots or cells and then transplanting them to bigger pots once they grow.

Fill a pot (or several pots, depending on how much you want to grow at any one time) with moist free-draining soil or seed starting mix formula. Sow seeds ¼ inch deep and one inch apart. Seeds can be fiddly so it's easiest if you mark each planting spot with the tip of a pencil, drop the seeds into place, then cover with a light layer of soil.

Water lightly with a mister or spray so you don't dislodge the seeds.

Step 2: Grow the seeds in the ideal location

Basil grows well in containers indoors at any time of year provided it has enough light, is grown at the right temperature, and isn't exposed to cold draughts in the cooler months. This means it's important to choose where to grow basil in the house as this can affect how well your plant does.

Basil loves about six hours of sunshine every day but don't choose a space that is too sunny or this will scorch the leaves. So a sunny windowsill is ideal, such as a south or south-west facing one, as long as you protect the plant from any hot midday sun. 

The optimal temperature for germination is 70°F, so if you are planning on growing basil in the cooler months consider using a propagator or heat pad to speed up germination. Alternatively, cover the pot with a plastic bag secured with an elastic band to increase the temperature by creating a mini-greenhouse.

Give basil the right conditions and seeds should sprout after 5-10 days.

Step 3: Keep up with regular watering

Basil plants need regular watering as their preferred growing medium is moist, well-drained soil. But they don't like sitting in water or wet soil, and this can lead to the roots rotting and your plant failing. So always check water isn't pooling in the saucer after watering and tip away any excess. Equally don’t let the soil dry out and forget to water it. 

Adjust your watering routine according to how your plant is looking. It's a good idea to pay attention to the leaves and the soil when it comes to your watering routine, rather than sticking to once a week on the same day. 

If the leaves are wilting or the soil is rock hard it's a clear indication you need to water more. If the soil is dark and sodden and smells unpleasant it's an indication that you should be watering less.

Step 4: Thin out seedlings if your pot is overcrowded

If you think your pot of basil is looking overcrowded as too many seedlings have developed (maybe your seed spacing wasn't accurate) it's time to thin out your seedlings so that each one has the space and share of water and nutrients it needs to grow into a healthy plant.

When the basil seedlings are large enough to handle, you can split a few off and plant them into separate pots. It's also a good idea to keep an eye on their roots. If they start coming through the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot this means it's time to upgrade them into larger pots.

Step 5: Harvest the leaves

Young basil plants grow so quickly that you'll be harvesting leaves in as little as three weeks. Once plants are about 6 inches tall, pinch out the growing tips as needed for cooking and garnishing. This will also encourage bushy growth but avoid harvesting too many leaves at once as this may weaken your plant.

"The best way to enjoy a luscious crop of basil leaves is to keep the plant producing side branches with more and more leaves,' says Maggie Stuckey. 'You do this with a kind of pruning, often called pinching, because the stems are soft enough you can do it with your fingertips."

This is based on a simple but vital bit of botany. "If you remove the growing tip from a stem the next buds lower down will be stimulated to open up and develop into side branches," says Maggie. "Put any trimmings to good use in tonight's pasta sauce."

Watch for signs of flower buds forming, and pinch these off to promote more foliage.  There's another reason for doing this too. "Many people believe that once the plant starts to flower the overall flavor of the leaves deteriorates," says Maggie. The flowers are also edible and may be used as a garnish.

Step 6: Propagate your plant to get more basil

Now you've found out how to grow basil indoors you will want to continue your success. The good news is you can now find out how to grow an endless supply of basil for free.

"Use a technique called propagation, which involves taking a cutting from the parent plant, rooting it in water or soil, and growing a brand new plant," says kitchen garden designer Resh Gala. "The easiest way to get more basil plants is to snip off a healthy stem and strip off the leaves from the bottom 2 inches of the stem. Place the cutting into a small glass of water, making sure no leaves are submerged in the water, and put on a sunny windowsill." 

Change the water every couple of days to keep it fresh. You should see white roots starting to develop after a week to 10 days. Then simply plant up the cutting in a pot of soil and continue looking after it as above.

Basil growing essentials

What's the difference between the main types of basil?

There are so many different varieties of basil to choose from that it's easy to feel overwhelmed.

"From any good garden center you can find a rich selection of basils including many delightful types that blend two flavors together so that you get a true basil taste with an extra layer of something else like lemon or anise," says gardening expert Maggie Stuckey. Here are some of the main ones to look out for when you're searching for seeds.

Italian basil is the most popular variety, easily recognizable and widely available, with the most common plant in this particular group known as sweet basil. Genovese basil is the best-known variety of sweet basil. Look for dependable varieties like 'Dolce Fresca' and 'Italian Cameo' for that mild, sweet flavor we all love.

Purple basil has leaves in shades of purple (as you'd expect) and dark red and the leaves have a licorice flavor. Popular varieties include 'Purple Opal' and 'Purple Ruffles'.

Thai basil has leaves that are much smaller, and the plants have distinctive purple stems and veining. Look out for 'Siam Queen' and 'Thai Anise Basil'. The leaves taste of anise, and the resulting peppery, spicy flavor is popular in Asian cooking.

Lemon basil is a specialty variety combining the familiar basil flavor with a zip of lemon. The fragrant leaves deliver a big hit of citrus scent too. Popular varieties include "Mrs. Burns" and 'Sweet Dani', with both growing tall so you'll need a big container to accommodate this type of basil plant.

We suggest trying a selection of different basil plants in your herb garden ideas to mix things up a little. Now find out how to grow basil indoors with our expert guide.

You can grow plenty of other herbs indoors on a windowsill too. Find out how to grow an indoor herb garden for fresh leaves all year round. Once you've mastered basil, other easy choices to add to your indoor collection include mint, rosemary, thyme, and chives.

"It's a great idea to take cuttings of all your favorite herbs like rosemary and mint and grow them indoors to enjoy," says Resh Gala. "It's very easy to root these cutting in water for a few weeks, then transplant them into small individual containers and grow them on a sunny windowsill."

When you're out in your backyard tending to your flowers, it can be easy to take your pruners to everything that's growing.

But, there are actually some blooms you should never deadhead, even when it looks like they need snipping. From fabulous foxgloves to beautiful hydrangeas, there are many surprising flowers that you don't actually need to deadhead.

If you're going through your month-by-month gardening jobs calendar and have deadheading on your checklist, it's worth making sure you avoid these.

1. Foxgloves

For those creating cottage gardens, foxgloves are a beautiful way to add shape and dimension.

“These biennial plants produce tall flower spikes that will drop seeds if left alone,” explains Victoria Cummins, gardening expert at Plant Whisperer.

“Deadheading prevents them from reseeding, so instead, let the spent flowers stay,” she adds.

Not only will this help feed wildlife, but it will also allow your fabulous foxgloves to return again next year.

2. Coneflowers

Coneflowers are great to have in your backyard, as not only will they add a pop of vibrant color, but also have medicinal qualities.

“I avoid deadheading coneflowers, as its spiky seed heads stand through winter and feed birds,” says Sal Musto, landscaping expert and owner of SalCorp Landscaping & Construction.

Even if you decide to deadhead some, make sure to leave a few to help with self-seeding.

3. Forget-me-nots

I love fairytale garden ideas and flowers that are small and sweet, so forget-me-nots are must-haves in backyards in my opinion. They’ll also keep adding magic to your outdoor space if you leave them be,

“To get that naturalized cottage garden look, avoid deadheading these dainty blue flowers,” Victoria says.

“They are prolific self-seeders that will spread charmingly if the flowers are left to produce seeds,” she adds.

If you have them on your grass rather than in a pot, this will also mean they spread even further, eventually turning your green lawn into an enchanting blue carpet.

4. Canna lilies

While some lilies are plants that are toxic for cats, canna lilies thankfully aren't. So, if you have a furry friend you’re looking after, you can keep them blooming in your yard for years to come.

“One spent flower on a canna can produce multiple new flower shoots, so put away your pruners and let cannas continue their showy display all season long,” Victoria explains.

These come in a variety of bright shades, from bold orange to pretty pink, and bloom from mid-summer right up to the first frost.

5. Hydrangeas

If you’re growing and caring for hydrangeas, it’s important not to deadhead them, as this will ensure you have beautiful flowers the next year.

“For hydrangeas, deadheading prevents reblooming, so I only thin older stems in spring,” says Sal.

He continues, “Light summer pruning after blooming may stimulate fall rebloom, but heavy pruning removes next year’s buds.”

Want to switch up your hydrangeas’ blooms next year? Learn how to change the color of hydrangeas to give your backyard a new look.

6. Miscanthus

For those planting ornamental grasses instead of flowers, Miscanthus is a plant you should not deadhead.

“This ornamental grass provides fantastic texture with its fuzzy seed heads that look striking in winter,” says Victoria.

She says not to cut them off — instead, wait until early spring to cut back the entire plant to allow for fresh growth.

7. Black-eyed Susans

If you’ve mixed together coneflowers and black-eyed Susans in your garden border ideas, you can leave these yellow flowers be, too.

“I always leave black-eyed Susans unpruned, as their seed heads feed birds through winter, as dropped seeds may produce new plants,” says Sal.

If you do want to improve shape or control spread you can prune them in spring, but for those going for a more natural look, it’s best to avoid pruning them.

By avoiding deadheading these flowers, you can allow your garden to bloom in a natural way. If you aren’t sure if you need to deadhead your flowers, Victoria has some last advice.

“Consider the wildlife that relies on seeds and habitat these plants provide in winter before deadheading anything,” she finishes by saying.

Want to carry on maintaining your garden? Learning what flowers to prune in summer may also be useful.

Shop gardening essentials

If you're thinking about renovating your garden, you may be wondering — how much does landscaping cost?

Our landscaping and property experts are here to help, with detailed advice on everything from budgeting to weighing up whether to go professional or DIY. 

Landscaping can transform your yard into a beautiful, functional space, but understanding the costs involved is crucial. With an endless list of brilliant backyard landscaping ideas to consider, you'll want to know how much your favorites will set you back.

Plan your landscaping project like a pro

From low-maintenance garden ideas to grander garden designs, the key is budgeting wisely and getting the best bang for your buck. 

Here's our comprehensive expert guide to help you estimate landscaping costs, keep expenses down, and calculate your budget effectively.

Estimating landscaping costs

The cost of landscaping varies based on the size of the yard and the complexity of the project. 

For small yards (under 1,000 square feet), expect to spend between $1,000 and $5,000. Medium yards (1,000-2,500 square feet) typically cost between $5,000 and $15,000. Large yards (over 2,500 square feet) can range from $15,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the extent of the work. These estimates include elements like plants, sod, mulch, and basic hardscaping such as patios or walkways.

Bryan Clayton, CEO of GreenPal, has spent more than 22 years designing and installing landscaping projects. He says, "When it comes to figuring out how much a landscaping project might cost, I've always found that roughly 5-10% of a home's value gives a good ballpark. For a $300,000 house, you're looking at about $15,000 to $30,000. It scales up with the property value, so a million-dollar home might see landscaping costs of around $100,000."

Keeping costs down

To keep landscaping costs manageable, focus on prioritising essentials and utilising budget-friendly alternatives wherever possible. 

Bryan says, "To keep costs manageable, start with the basics like an irrigation system and foundational shrubs, then gradually add more complex features like hardscapes. 

"Breaking the project into phases can also help by spreading out the expense over time. Also, choose materials that offer durability and affordability. For example, gravel is less expensive than paving and easier to maintain."

Tommy Mello, founder of A1 Garage Door Service, has experience of more than 200 landscaping projects in the last decade alone. He says, "One effective approach is to choose cost-effective materials. For example, using mulch instead of stone can be more affordable while still providing the desired aesthetic and functional benefits. Selecting native plants is another way to save money, as they typically require less water and maintenance, reducing both initial and ongoing costs. 

"Homeowners can also reduce expenses by tackling simpler tasks themselves. Planting, weeding, and basic lawn care are manageable DIY projects that can significantly cut labor costs without compromising the overall quality of the landscaping."

Finally, consider scaling back on expensive features like intricate water features or extensive lighting.

DIY vs professional work

Deciding between DIY and professional landscaping depends on your budget and skill level. DIY projects can significantly cut costs but require time and effort. 

Tommy says, "Deciding between DIY and professional landscaping work depends on the project's complexity and the homeowner's skills. Simple tasks such as planting, weeding, and laying mulch are often suitable for DIY efforts and can save a considerable amount of money. 

"However, more complex undertakings, such as designing the layout, installing irrigation systems, or constructing patios and decks, should be left to professionals. Professionals bring expertise and experience that ensure these critical aspects of the project are completed correctly and sustainably, avoiding costly mistakes and ensuring a polished finish."

Rafi Friedman, president of Coastal Luxury Outdoors, adds, "The DIY approach can definitely help to keep costs down, but it's best to stick to simple, low-impact tasks like planting flower beds or spreading mulch. Anything that requires very heavy lifting (like planting large trees) or specialized skills (like pouring concrete) is usually best left to the pros."

Cost of designers

Hiring a landscape designer can enhance your yard's aesthetic and functionality — but how much can you expect to pay?

Tommy says, "The cost of hiring a landscape designer varies widely across different states due to regional differences in labor costs and living expenses. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $50 and $150 per hour for professional design services. For smaller projects, design fees might range from $500 to $1,500, while more extensive projects can incur costs from $2,500 to $5,000 or more. 

"While these fees might seem substantial, investing in a professional designer can lead to a more cohesive and well-planned project, potentially saving money in the long term by avoiding costly redesigns or fixes."

While adding to the initial cost, a well-designed plan can save money in the long run by avoiding design flaws and maximizing space efficiency.

Budgeting formula

Estimating the likely costs of redesigning your yard can be done through some rough calculations.

Tommy says, "A practical way to estimate your landscaping budget is to use a rough formula that accounts for various project elements. Start with the design fee — if there is one — then add the product of the yard’s square footage and the average cost per square foot for landscaping in your area.

"Next, include your budget for plants and materials, and finally, add any costs for special features such as a deck or water feature. This formula helps provide a structured approach to budgeting, ensuring all critical components are considered."

For example, for a medium yard of 2,000 square feet with an estimated cost of $10 per square foot, the initial budget would be $20,000. This might rise to $22,500 after accounting for plants, materials and a water feature.  

For extra safety in planning, it's also good practice to add a buffer of 10-15% for unexpected expenses. This would bring our example project to an estimate of around $25,000.

FAQs

How much do landscape gardeners charge?

Tommy says, "Landscape gardeners generally charge either by the hour or by the project. Hourly rates can range from $50 to $100, while project-based fees depend on the scope and complexity of the work. It's crucial to obtain detailed quotes and clarify what is included in the price to avoid any unexpected expenses."

What are the most cost-effective trends in landscaping?

Native planting, xeriscaping, and using recycled materials are among the most cost-effective trends. These approaches reduce maintenance and water costs while promoting sustainability. Additionally, simple designs with multifunctional spaces, like combined seating and planting areas, can provide high value at a lower cost.

How can I ensure my landscaping project stays within budget?

To stay within budget, start with a detailed plan and clear priorities. Tommy says, "Prioritize essential elements, obtain multiple quotes, and consider implementing the project in phases. Starting with the most critical aspects and adding features over time as your budget allows can help manage costs effectively."

Meet our experts

By understanding the factors influencing landscaping costs and using a strategic approach to budgeting, you can create a beautiful outdoor space that meets your needs without breaking the bank.

Next, check out these backyard privacy mistakes to avoid.

Planting bulbs in fall means you'll have a bloom-filled, super-colorful garden next spring. There's just so much to love about planting bulbs and then forgetting about them until up they pop like magic to brighten your day.

Head to the garden center or browse online and you'll soon see that bulbs are an inexpensive way of filling garden borders, containers, and window boxes. They come in a range of beautiful varieties, are so easy to grow, and once planted you don't have to do anything except wait to enjoy them when they break into bloom.

From September onwards is the perfect time to learn how to plant a whole range of flower bulbs like daffodils, crocus, and tulips. Perhaps you might like to add some more unusual bulbs into the mix too for a really show-stopping display. Either way, here's our round-up of expert suggestions for which bulbs to plant in autumn.

When to plant autumn bulbs

If you're wondering how to plant bulbs and when is generally the best time (after all, 'fall' is a big window!) it's good to know that it varies according to type. 

Flowers like daffodils, crocuses, and hyacinths are best planted in early fall. Snowdrops can be planted a little later, from mid to late fall. 

Meanwhile, tulip bulbs can be planted even later in the season. The ideal month is November but in some cases they can be planted as late as December as long as the ground isn't frozen.

You can also plant hardy summer bulbs, such as allium and bearded irises, from early to mid-fall. This will keep your garden filled with blooms once the spring flowers have faded.

1. Crocus

Plant crocus bulbs in late autumn and come spring you'll enjoy lots of bold early color. Choose deep purple or bright yellow shades for a bold splash, or crisp white ones if you prefer something more neutral. 

"Crocus are some of the earliest spring flowers to bloom," says leading horticulturalist and flower expert Jenny Rose Carey. "They have tiny cup-shaped blooms so when you plant crocus in the fall cluster them for impact. You can also raise them up in containers or window boxes to better admire their intricate patterns, color variations, and scent."

Easy to grow, if you plant crocus in the right spot they will eventually form sizeable clumps. Corms (a type of bulb) should be planted four inches deep and the same distance apart. Always remember to plant the corm with the pointed tip facing upwards, and add a handful of grit to improve drainage.

2. Hyacinths

With their giant wands of blooms and gorgeous scent, hyacinths are a must-have springtime favorite. Mix and match them in flowerbeds and containers with other spring-flowering bulbs for an incredible display.

Like other spring-flowering bulbs, hyacinths should be planted in fall, between the end of September and early November, and they will flower in March–April the following spring. Hyacinth bulbs are available from late summer into fall from garden centers and online. 

Always wear gloves when handling hyacinth bulbs as they can irritate the skin. Whether planting in the ground or in a pot, plant your bulbs, pointy bit facing upwards, at a depth of around four inches, with around three inches between each one.

These beauties need a sunny spot with well-drained soil. If your garden has heavy soil but you still want to plant hyacinths in the ground, add a handful of grit to the bottom of each planting hole to help improve drainage.

3. Daffodils

Daffodils are a must when you're deciding which bulbs to plant in autumn. These easy-going favorites will come back year after year and there is plenty of choice as there are thousands of different varieties to choose from. As well as traditional yellow they come in white, orange, and coral colors too.

"The most widely grown daffodils are crown-like trumpet shapes with small or large cups but there are others with swept-back outer petals, multiple heads to a stem, or fully double flowers,' says Jenny Rose Carey. 'Daffodils have a range of diverse fragrances too, from the heady tazetta types through to the sweet scent of jonquils."

Plant daffodil bulbs in early to mid-fall. They will flower from late winter to late spring, depending on the variety and when you planted them. Daffodils generally prefer a sunny spot in well-drained soil, although some varieties can cope with light shade.

4. Tulips

In early fall you will start to see tulip bulbs for sale but it's a little too early to plant them yet. The best time to plant them is later in the season. This helps protect against tulip blight, a disease that rots the bulbs and causes the leaves to develop a scorched look.

"The ideal moment to plant tulips is in November when the temperature of the soil is a little lower than in October," says internationally acclaimed garden designer and bulb expert Jacqueline van der Kloet. "If you want tulips to flower for several years they need to be planted deep down, at a depth of at least 5-6 inches."

Start by planting tulips in good, well-drained soil in a sunny position. If your soil is heavy it helps to dig in a little coarse gravel before planting.

"Tulips are the divas among spring-flowering bulbs and are eager to have preferential treatment," says Jacqueline. "But they're worth it."

5. Camassia

Native to western North America, Camassia (also known as wild hyacinth) flower in late spring. Once planted, they bloom for many years, and will gradually multiply to form good-sized clumps in your flowerbeds. 

"The beautiful spikes of blue, pink, or white star-like flowers are an excellent addition to a late spring garden," says Jenny Rose Carey. "Easy to grow from a fall-planted bulb, they are perfectly at home in a flowerbed planted with columbine, tulips, and allium."

Unlike many spring bulbs, camassia will grow in heavy, moist soil so rejoice if these are your conditions, as you've found a bulb that will truly work in your garden. You can plant them from September right through to November, with the pointy end facing upwards, at a depth of at least twice the height of the bulb. Space them about four inches apart, and water well.

6. Allium

If you love purple flowering garden plants be sure to add allium bulbs to your autumn shopping list. 'Striking purple spring-flowering bulbs are almost all to be found among allium,' says Jacqueline van der Kloet. "Practically all purple alliums go well with varieties of salvia plants as neighbors and they flower almost at the same time." 

These hardy bulbs are planted in early fall, either in borders or container gardens, at a depth of about four times the diameter of the bulb and about four inches apart. The taller varieties will need at least eight inches between the bulbs. They look particularly magical woven in amongst ornamental grasses. 

Alliums appear in late spring/early summer, making a striking punctuation mark in the garden. From the striking 'Purple Sensation' to the eye-catching fireworks of 'Globemaster,' alliums will certainly add some drama to your outdoor space.

7. Bearded iris

"Bearded iris must be the grand spring queens of the garden," says horticulturist and flower expert Jac Semmler. "A delicate petal tongue pushes out and is fanned by a series of petals. The kinds of flowers available range from simple-structured blooms to voluminous varieties with every possible fold and ripple, sitting gloriously on top of stems in a big pile of petals and flounce."

Buy loose bare-rooted rhizomes (a type of bulb) in autumn and get them settled in the ground. They like a position in full sun best. Plant them flat and shallow in the soil. You can even leave a section of the rhizome exposed to the sun if you live in a cool climate so they can enjoy a little heat. 

If needed you can also add some grit for drainage when planting to avoid the rhizome rotting. "My advice is not to delay getting your hands on some and getting them in your garden," says Jac.

Bearded iris are glorious and a tad underrated, according to Jac and we agree. They make such a statement they deserve a place in every garden.

Long summer days in the garden means more opportunities for growing and there are plenty of vegetables and herbs to plant this month that will give you quick results. Plant some of these rapid growers now and you'll soon be harvesting fresh crops before the weather starts to cool down in fall.

August is a wonderful time in the vegetable garden and there are still plenty of options for planting. This includes sowing seeds that you can harvest before fall, as well as maybe second plantings of crops that are already established in the garden but are probably peaking around now.

Whether you want crisp salad leaves or the freshest herbs to add flavor to your cooking, this is a great month to get planting as part of your month by month calendar of garden jobs. And the good news is even if your outdoor space is small there are still plenty of crops you can grow in containers. 

1. Spinach

The perfect 'cut and come again' crop, spinach will keep growing right through August and into fall, giving you a steady supply. Pick smaller leaves for the salad bowl and this will keep the leaves coming.

You can even grow spinach well into winter if you choose a hardy cultivar and plant it in a sunny spot.

After enriching the soil with some organic material, direct-sow in lines one inch deep. Water, then cover lightly with soil. Keep well watered, and once the seedlings emerge thin them to six inches apart. You can also sow spinach successfully in large containers.

"For the sweetest, crispiest spinach, make sure to harvest it early in the morning while the weather is still cool," explains New Jersey based organic gardener Resh Gala. "This means leaves will be upright and firm not limp and droopy."

2. Radishes

Radishes are one of the fastest growing crops in the vegetable garden. They can go from seed to harvest in just 25-30 days, and you will enjoy an abundant supply from there on. They're also great vegetables to grow in a small backyard.

Sow seeds in rows about four inches apart. "This will allow each individual radish plant to grow properly," says Resh. "I like to pre-moisten my soil by watering it prior to sowing seeds. If you water after direct sowing seeds very often some of the seeds float away with the water and collect together in a clump, so spacing becomes a problem."

If you wait too long to harvest radishes can become pithy. If in doubt you can always taste one or two to see if they're ready. Also, if you live in a frost-free area you can keep your radish crop coming all year round, re-sowing every 14 days for a non-stop harvest.

3. Basil

Basil is a favorite herb of many cooks and the scent of its leaves is one of the delights of summer. If you want to bring Amalficore into your garden, this is the best herb for doing so. This Mediterranean herb loves hot weather and baking in full sun, but you will have to keep an eye on watering it as you're growing it at the hottest time of the year.

"Growing basil from seed is much more manageable than with many other herb plants," says gardening expert Maggie Stuckey. "The process is remarkably simple because you're going to direct-sow right into a big container. These seeds will germinate in seven to ten days. The young plant grows so quickly that you will be harvesting leaves in as little as three weeks."

Find out how to grow basil to get the best out of your plants. One of the top tips is to carry on snipping as you need the leaves but as soon as your basil starts to form a spray of flowers at the outer tips of the most mature stems trim them off and add to the salad bowl. This is known as 'pinching off' and is done because experts say that as soon as the plant flowers, it affects the true flavor of the leaves.

4. Garlic chives

I love the idea of having a supply of fresh and easy to use garlic-flavored leaves on hand. Like regular chives, you can eat both the leaves and the flowers, and they're so easy to pick and chop to add a quick garlic flavor to any dish.

You can sow these herbs right through summer and into fall. In frost-free areas, garlic chives can be sown right through winter and into early spring. If you live in a cool climate, it's worth growing some in a container and bringing the pot indoors once temperatures dip. You can always use indoor grow lights (such as the GooingTop LED Grow Lights from Amazon that are dimmable and have a timer option) to help give them warmth.

"There is so much to recommend garlic chives in the garden," says horticulturalist Christina Chung. "They grow happily in a wide range of climates and soils, thriving and blooming in sun or shade. They produce big clouds of white flowers in late summer when the garden is often going through a quiet moment."

5. Arugula

This is one salad leaf you won’t want to be without and is another great choice for sowing in late summer. Packed with peppery flavour, arugula is a staple of the salad bowl and looks pretty growing in a handy pot near the kitchen door too, if you're looking for green kitchen ideas. 

This tasty salad leaf around is also one of the easiest to grow. Sow the seeds of this gourmet green successively every two weeks right through the season to guarantee a continual harvest over several months. You can even get 'Speedy' varieties that are ready to harvest in 30 days from sowing. Just remember to pick the leaves regularly to keep them coming fast. 

Sow in a sunny to partially shady area in rows 15 inches apart, and cover with fine soil. Firm lightly and water gently. From there, seedlings will emerge in 7-14 days depending on soil and weather conditions.  

6. Runner beans

It's not too late to plant runner beans and still get a decent crop due to their rapid and rampant growth habit, especially if you live in a mild climate. August is definitely the last practical sowing date, though, so make sure to take care of it by planting it in full sun and water regularly.

This ornamental variety of bean is also known as a pole bean. It has large showy red or white flowers so makes a pretty addition to the look of your garden as well as cropping heavily for weeks.

"Much like other beans they are best grown by planting the large seeds directly in the garden," says Christina. "They climb by wrapping their stems around structures. Be sure to provide a large trellis for them to run up." For example, the Maxpace Garden Stakes Kit from Amazon will allow you build a sturdy frame for your beans.

7. Asian greens

There's a huge range of oriental salad leaves to choose from including Chinese cabbage, pak choi, mizuna and tatsoi. They are all ideal for sowing in August as they like to germinate in warm soil, but thrive in damp fall conditions.

Oriental leaves grow fast and fill that gap when traditional summer veggies have finished cropping, yet winter crops are still a way off from being harvested. These exotic leaves are so easy to grow too, and there's a good variety available including this gorgeous red pak choi variety Brassica rapa rubra. 

"These plants are both sturdy and tender," says Maggie. "They can handle a wide range of temperatures, aren't much bothered by disease, and don't need staking or any other kind of physical support. The stems are crisp and juicy, while the leaves are tender and spicy-sweet."

Make light sowings in moist soil, then cover with a cloch. Alternatively, grow in containers. Sow every few weeks, thinning the seedlings out once large enough to handle. Then keep well watered. You will be able to harvest baby leaves 5-6 weeks later. Use the 'cut and come again' method to encourage more growth for months. 

Meet the experts

There is plenty of choice when it comes to vegetables and herbs to plant in August as part of your kitchen garden ideas. 

When choosing what seeds to go for, make sure to think about what you're eating right now and use your vegetable garden to complement these choices. Be aware too of what growing zone you're in, as some of you will have months of warm weather stretching ahead while others will face cooler conditions sooner.

Want to carry on making your garden grow this month? Learning what flowers to plant in August will also come in useful. 

I'm going away on vacation soon, so I've been looking for the best ways to keep my plant babies hydrated and healthy while I'm far from home. 

In the same boat? I've asked gardening and landscaping experts for their top tips for self-watering plants, and they're thankfully all easy to implement. Drip irrigation systems, self-watering planters, and soaker hoses are their favorite methods, which they've gone into in detail. “These systems can significantly improve the maintenance of healthy plants with minimal effort,” says Dennis Sons, gardening expert and owner of TN Nursery.

If you're maintaining a month-by-month gardening calendar but still want to ensure your plants get some TLC during the warmer months, these are all great methods to know.

1. Self-watering planters

One of the easiest ways to water plants while on vacation is by choosing self-watering planters.

“They typically have a reservoir at the bottom that stores water drawn up into the soil as needed through capillary action,” explains Dennis.

“This ensures that the plants get a steady moisture supply without the risk of overwatering. They're also perfect for busy gardeners needing more time to water their plants daily,” he adds.

He recommends the Lechuza self-watering planters, which come in various sizes and styles to suit different plants and garden aesthetics. For example, the Lechuza 14900 Deltini Self-Watering Planter from Amazon is the site’s choice and comes in six chic colors.

2. Drip irrigation systems

Do you have a large backyard you need to keep maintained? You might want to consider a bigger self-watering method.

“Drip irrigation systems are ideal as they deliver water directly to plant roots while preventing disease and waste,” explains Steve Schumacher, landscaping expert and owner of Boston Landscape Co.

“I recently installed one for a client who travels often, and they love how little maintenance it requires,” he says.

Dennis agrees, saying they ensure plants get the right amount of water. “Brands like Rain Bird offer customizable drip irrigation kits tailored to your garden's layout,” he says.

For instance, the Rain Bird Drip Irrigation Landscape/Garden Watering Kit from Amazon has a simple three-step installation process and three different types of watering hoses.

3. Soaker hoses

For those on a budget, soaker hoses are a much more cost-effective solution to self-watering outdoors.

“The porous hoses that slowly release water along their length,” Dennis explains. 

“They're easy to install and can be snaked through garden beds to provide even watering,” he adds.

Dennis says that Gilmour makes reliable, durable, and efficient soaker hoses, such as the Gilmour Hose Flat Soaker from Amazon which is made from 100% environmentally-friendly vinyl.

No matter what techniques you choose, Dennis says that maintenance is important for their longevity and effectiveness. “Check the emitters or hoses regularly for clogs and clean them as needed.”

He continues, “It's also necessary to monitor the water levels in self-watering planters and refill the reservoirs before they run dry.”

With the right care, self-watering systems can save time and ensure your plants remain healthy and vibrant. 

Want to carry on maintaining your outdoor space this season? Finding out the latest garden trends may be useful. 

Or, if you’re ticking off other tasks before going away, learning the small appliances you should unplug before going on vacation is also a smart idea.

If you're looking for new ways to zhuzh up your garden, finding out the latest trends will help you design a space that's fresh and fabulous.

I've asked landscaping experts what garden trends they've seen blooming this year and that they also think will come into next year, too. From clean lines and minimalism to outdoor living spaces, there are plenty of wonderful things to try.

For those searching for backyard ideas, these will all work in spaces big and small and will bring a modern touch to your outdoor space.

1. Cottagecore

I love cottagecore design inside the home, which has had a huge resurgence this year. I’ve also seen cottage gardens bloom as a popular garden trend, which is wonderful as they’re beautiful and easy to maintain.

“It's characterized by natural materials like wood and rough stone, abundant, overflowing garden beds, and kitschy garden decorations like gnomes and fairies,” says Rafi Friedman, landscaping expert and president of Coastal Luxury Outdoors.

“Focus on native wildflowers for a low-maintenance approach to this look, and don't forget about water features,” he adds.

For an even more whimsical approach, fairytale garden ideas are also worth checking out.

2. Native and drought-resistant plants

It can be easy to pick flowers and plants for your garden that are pretty, without thinking about if they’re native or not. But, more and more people are taking the natural approach and putting plants where they truly belong.

“I've noticed a rising trend of native and drought-resistant plants in gardens this year,” explains Steve Schumacher, landscaping expert at Boston Landscape Co.

He continues, “These plants thrive with little maintenance and support local wildlife.”

For example, Steve suggests incorporating prickly pear cactus, agave or rusty blackhaw viburnum.

Other choices include wildflowers that support local ecosystems, such as Echinacea, Black-eyed Susan, and Milkweed due to their looks and power to attract pollinators and support wildlife. 

“These vibrant flowers are easy to maintain and appropriate for gardens of all sizes, from urban plots to sprawling suburban lawns,” adds Dennis Sons, owner and CEO of TN Nursery.

Additionally, Dennis says planting ornamental grasses like Fountain Grass and Switchgrass is gaining popularity. They add texture and movement to gardens, creating a dynamic and serene environment.  

3. Outdoor living spaces

When the sun is shining, lounging outside is one of the most relaxing things you can do. You can take this one step further by transforming your backyard into an outdoor living space, making it on-trend and stylish. 

“My company has seen a 45% increase in requests for outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and gazebos,” says Steve.

He continues, “This is because homeowners want to extend indoor comfort into their yards while connecting with nature.”

You can do this in a rental space with minimal effort, such as pairing up the best outdoor furniture and a firepit together (like the Latitude Run Modelle Fire Pit Table from Wayfair) to create a cozy spot to relax in the evenings.

4. Minimalism

While the biggest interior design trends this year have involved bold styles like the unexpected red theory and dopamine dressing, outside is a different story.

“Clean lines and minimalism have defined garden styles this year,” says Steve. “Gravel, concrete, and metal materials create sleek walkways and accents.”

Steve adds, “For flowers, choose a mix of bold annuals and perennials in symmetrical or casual placements.”

Taking this laidback yet chic approach will make your outdoor area look sophisticated and inviting.

5. Natural materials

As well as planting sustainably being a big garden trend for the year, natural materials are also in the spotlight.

“In terms of décor, natural materials are in the spotlight. Rustic wooden planters, stone pathways, and water features that mimic natural streams are becoming more popular,” says Dennis.

“These elements contribute to a calming, organic aesthetic that complements the focus on eco-friendly gardening,” he says.

Dennis adds that furniture made from reclaimed wood or recycled materials is also highly sought after, in line with the broader emphasis on sustainability.

You can also embrace structural wooden elements like pergola ideas to create warmth and depth. 

These garden trends all showcase a broader desire to reconnect with nature and create peaceful outdoor sanctuaries. 

“By focusing on natural beauty, we can all enjoy visually appealing gardens that benefit the environment,” Dennis finishes by saying.

Want to add more sustainability to your outdoor space this year? The biggest landscaping trend this year also takes an eco-friendly approach.

If you've spotted winged insects in your backyard and want to know exactly what you're dealing with, finding out the differences between flying ants and winged termites will come in useful.

I've spoken with pest control experts to find out what sets these two creepy crawlies apart and how to remove them from your outdoor space. Termites can be especially detrimental, so it's a smart idea to figure out if that's what you're dealing with or not.

For those wanting to remove flying ants from a backyard and aren't sure if that's actually what you're dealing with, it's time to figure out the differences between these and termites.

The differences in appearance between flying ants and termites

It can be pretty difficult to distinguish these two bugs when they're zooming around your yard, since they're similar sizes and shapes. 

“However, on closer inspection, you'll find that flying ants really are just that — they're ants with wings and that's exactly what they look like,” explains Brett Bennett, pest control expert and director of operations at PURCOR Pest Solutions. “You'll notice that distinct ant pinched waist and general ant silhouette.”

Meanwhile, termites look completely different, with more of a slender and uniform body. “Termites have straight, beadlike antennae, no constricted waist, and the front and back wings are the same length,” explains Bob Gilbert, pest control expert and board-certified entomologist at Blue Sky Pest Control. 

The differences in damage that flying ants and termites can cause

Now you know how to spot the differences between them, you can then work out how worried you need to be depending on what you have in your yard.

“Termites can cause serious damage to your porch or outdoor wooden structures,” explains Brett.

“While they are critical in the environment to break down cellulose in trees and other plants and turn it into the soil, they can do the same thing to our homes, which is less desirable,” adds Bob. This is why it's a good idea to get rid of termites. 

Thankfully, flying ants are mostly just an annoyance especially if there's food around. “They don't tend to be aggressive and will mostly bite in self-defense,” Brett says.

Bob agrees, adding that while flying ants can get in food or be a nuisance due to high numbers, they won’t damage your home like termites.

How to get rid of flying ants and termites

If you are having problems with either of these in your yard, you can get rid of them quickly and easily with one of the most common household cleaning supplies.

“I recommend keeping a mixture of dish soap and water in a small spray bottle handy since a quick spray on their bodies will quickly dehydrate and kill them,” explains Brett.

I have a bottle of this in my small vegetable garden, which I’ve used while dealing with an aphid vegetable crop infestation. 

I just re-used an old spray bottle, but if you don’t have one, I recommend getting durable glass ones such as the Sally's Organics Store Glass Bottles from Amazon which have over 26,000 five-star reviews from shoppers who love how lightweight and chic they are.

Even though flying ants and termites look similar, they’re very different and can affect your backyard in various ways. 

“Knowing the differences between these will allow you to make smart choices for their control and elimination,” Bob finishes by saying.

If winged insects aren’t the only pests you’re dealing with outside, learning how to repel ticks and how to get rid of mosquitos will also come in useful.

When it comes to gardening in the summer, deadheading is one of the most important tasks you can do, as it will ensure you have beautiful blooms for years to come.

“This redirects the plant's energy from making seeds back into growing more flowers, keeps your pots and garden beds looking tidy, and will prevent the plants from self-seeding all over, which leads to overcrowding,” explains Victoria Cummins, gardening expert at PlantWhisperer.

If you’re tackling a month-by-month gardening calendar and want to add deadheading to your list, these are the blooms that are worth tackling.

1. Petunias

I have petunias in my backyard which are blooming beautifully, so while I’m a little sad about this one, I know it’s for the greater good.

“Petunias will continue to bloom into fall if deadheaded,” explains Steve Schumacher, landscaping expert and founder of Boston Landscape Co.

Simply pinch off spent blooms to ensure the plant's energy can be redirected to new flower production instead of seed development. 

2. Marigolds

While bright and beautiful colors of marigolds might be adding cheerfulness to your backyard right now, the spent ones definitely aren't.

Victoria explains, “Pinching off the dead blooms of these will signal the plant to produce more flowers rather than going to seed.”

These are also beautiful annuals that work well in designs such as in cottage garden ideas.

3. Geraniums

Geraniums are a staple of summer garden border ideas, so it’s a smart idea to deadhead them to ensure they carry on flourishing.

“They can also benefit from deadheading and may produce a second flush of blooms in late summer,” Steve explains.

He says to make sure they last by fertilizing them after deadheading, in order to provide nutrients for new growth. For example, the Miracle-Gro All Purpose Plant Food is an Amazon bestseller and is water soluble. This is a trick you can also apply to other flowers after deadheading them.

4. Black-eyed Susans

As well as ensuring your sure annuals thrive by deadheading them in August, make sure to snip the flowerheads off perennials, too.

“Plants like black-eyed Susans will often rebloom if you clean up the old flowers,” says Victoria.

If you are planting in August, coneflowers and asters will also fit in beautifully with these yellow flowers.

5. Roses

Roses are seriously eye-catching backyard beauties, flowering from early spring to late fall, producing new blooms every six weeks.

“This plant really thrives with regular deadheading, which will prolong their flowering season,” Victoria says.

Want to allow your gorgeous roses to thrive even more? You can always grab specialist plant food for them, such as the BioAdvanced All-In-One Rose and Flower Care Granules from Amazon that are the site’s choice, kill insects, and control plant diseases.

As well as deadheading your flowers, Steve says to ensure to continue watering your plants regularly, especially in hot and dry weather. 

“With proper care, deadheading in August can lead to a bounty of new blossoms and an extended bloom season,” he finishes by saying.

Want to carry on caring for your plants this month? Learning the plants to prune in August will also come in useful.

Shop gardening essentials

Everyone knows lawns need a good amount of water to keep them green and thriving but what's the right amount? You may actually be watering your lawn too often or not enough. 

We asked professional gardeners and landscapers for their advice to make this outdoor task a little more clear. We got the low-down on how often you should be watering your lawn, how much water you should be using, and the best time of day to give it a good soak. 

See their helpful lawn care tips to keep your front and backyards properly hydrated.

How long should you water a lawn for?

If you're new to landscaping, it may be a little stressful to learn all the ins and outs of lawn maintenance. Once you've mowed your lawn to get it looking neat and tidy, you'll have to give it some water to keep it hydrated and growing strong.

But how much water does it actually need? It's an important piece of info to avoid a waterlogged yard. Thankfully, the pros are here to help.

"It's recommended to water your lawn for 30-45 minutes every second day, ideally between 4 AM and 7 AM," says Melissa Erin, Chief Strategy Officer of Paramount Landscaping Inc.

"This early morning timing helps prevent water loss due to evaporation and reduces the risk of disease, as the grass has time to dry during the day. Watering during this period also ensures the water soaks deeply into the soil, reaching the roots more effectively," says Melissa. 

Finding the right time for you

When it comes to landscaping, a certain amount of customization is necessary. After all, one person's yard may be vastly different from another's. The time of year may also affect your watering schedule as summer lawn care has different requirements due to the heat.

"The amount of water your lawn needs can vary based on factors like climate, soil type, and the specific grass species. A general rule of thumb is to aim for about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall, to keep your lawn healthy. One practical way to measure this is by using a rain gauge or even a simple can to collect and measure water depth," says Melissa. 

The good news is, when it comes to frequency, sometimes less is more. "Different-sized lawns will obviously need different amounts of water to cover. We recommend using a hose to water deeply and infrequently, rather than shallow and frequently so that the ground below the lawn becomes fully soaked. The more water that gets through to the ground below the better as it encourages the root systems to grow downwards into the soil towards the moisture and helps improve the stability of the turf," says Chrissie Handley, a lawn care specialist working for Online Turf.

How to know if your lawn needs water

It can be a little tricky to know when your lawn is in need of water, especially if you have an unconventional yard like a clover lawn. "To check if your lawn has been adequately watered, you can use the 'finger test.' Simply insert your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle (about an inch deep). If the soil feels moist, you've provided enough water. If it's dry, you may need to water a bit more," says Melissa. 

You can generally tell if your lawn is in need of water by feeling and looking at the grass. "A well-watered lawn will have a uniform green color and will spring back when walked on. If the grass blades remain flattened after being stepped on, it might be a sign of insufficient water. Regularly checking the soil moisture and observing your lawn's response can help you fine-tune your watering schedule," Melissa explains.

Lawn care essentials

In addition to watering, make sure to maintain your yard by aerating the lawn. Finding the right type of grass to use is also an important step. "Incorporating native or drought-resistant grasses and plants into your lawn can reduce water needs, as these species are adapted to local climate conditions and require less maintenance," says Melissa.

Knowing what flowers to plant in August will help breathe some new life into your garden during this month and beyond. However, the types of flowers that will flourish in your outdoor space will vary from one gardening zone to the next. 

To help guide us, we grilled garden gurus and plant pros on what we should be planting in August with the best options for each region. 

Of course, planting is just one aspect of gardening. So to ensure your blooms blossom when they're supposed to, learning what to prune in summer will be advantageous and help you keep your flowers, bushes, and trees happy and healthy, this season and the next.

Experts say, these are the flowers to plant in August

Whether it’s weeding, mowing your lawn, or feeding your plants, a garden is an ever-evolving oasis so will need some tender loving care to keep it looking its best. 

However, these gardening requirements will change from month to month. For example, one minute you might be planting bulbs in autumn for spring, the next you're deadheading, and after that, you're learning what plants to prune in August. 

So, to keep on top of your outside to-do list, follow our monthly gardener's calendar to ensure important tasks — like sowing your seeds at the right time and planting your bulbs — aren’t forgotten.

Now that you've some of the garden basics down, here's what to plant in August, according to experts: 

1. Marigolds

Hardiness Zones: 2-11

Type: Annual

If there’s one flower that's bound to bring some color (and a smile to your face), it’s a bright and beautiful marigold. Available in a wide variety of colors, from pink and purple to red and orange, marigolds are known for being one of the easiest plants to grow thanks to how quickly they bloom. 

These little beauties also top the list of plants that repel pests outdoors, so you can inject some color while keeping your backyard bug-free. Plus, according to Carrie Spoonemore, co-creator of Park Seed’s Seed to Spoon app, marigolds aren't shy of tolerating heat — even during August’s blistering temperatures. 

“They can thrive in the warm temperatures of late summer, making them an excellent choice for planting in August,” Carrie explains. “They also grow relatively quickly. So planting in August can still give you a good display of blooms within a few weeks, depending on your specific climate.”

To keep them blooming, place them in full sun and water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Want to pop these beauties on your border? Carrie recommends planting them next to broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, lavender and sunflowers. "Keep them away from non-companion plants like eucalyptus and fennel," the expert adds. 

2. Zinnias

Hardiness Zones: 2-11

Type: Annual

Along with topping our guide to the garden plants that are safe for cats, zinnias join our list for one of the best flowers to plant in August. 

Explaining why, Carrie says “With their wide range of colors and easy-to-grow natures, zinnias can flourish with late summer sowing. 

“They thrive in warm weather, grow quickly from seed to bloom, and attract beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies to help support the garden ecosystem late into the season.” So in other words: what’s not to love? 

According to Carrie, companion plants include basil, broccoli, chamomile, cosmos, lettuce and tomatoes. While noteworthy non-companion plants include eucalyptus, fennel, lavender, lemongrass, mint, rosemary.

3. Asters

Hardiness Zones: 3-8

Type: Perennials 

Known as one of the best purple flowering garden plants, asters also grow in shades of blue, pink, and white. “They bloom from late summer to fall and thrive in well-drained soil with full sun to partial shade,” Kelly Funk, president and CEO of Jackson & Perkins says. 

“Native to the Northwest and Midwest United States, these plants are also highly beneficial for pollinators and other insects," Anna Ohler, owner of Bright Lane Gardens adds. "I also just love the look of the flowers!”.

These bright and beautiful Asters Wood Blue are low growing so are great for planting right in front of borders. This pot of Aster Woods Purple will thrive in sunny spots and bloom weekly from summer to early fall. 

To keep your Asters thriving, water regularly, especially during dry spells, and divide every few years to prevent overcrowding. 

4. Sedum

Hardiness Zones: 3-9

Type: Perennial

If you live in a super sunny spot where it doesn't rain much during the summer months, knowing what to plant in a drought-prone backyard is key. So if you’re after one of the best drought-tolerant plants, that will stand up to intense heat and little water, sedum is it. 

“Sedum, or stonecrop, are succulent plants that come in a variety of forms and colors,” Kelly explains. “They are especially known for their late-season blooms from late summer to fall.” Which is why it’s good to plant in August.  “They do best in well-drained soil with full sun to partial shade," Kelly adds. 

To keep your sedum happy, Kelly says to avoid planting with water-loving plants like astilbes. Instead, the plant pro says they’ll fit in nicely with asters, ornamental grasses, and Black-eyed Susans. We love these Sedum Fuldagluts, which will grow fast and add a pop of pink to your backyard.

5. Coneflowers

Hardiness Zones: 3-9

Type: Perennials

Often mistaken for daisies, coneflowers or echinaceas are full sun-loving plants worth adding to your garden in August. 

“Coneflowers have large, daisy-like flowers with a prominent central cone and come in shades of pink, purple, yellow, and white,” Kelly explains. “They bloom from summer to fall and prefer to be planted in well-drained soil with full sun.” 

But it's not just borders where these blooms thrive. These Echinacea Sombrero Adobe Orange are ideal for small gardens or container gardens because they are compact in size. 

To keep these colorful blooms blooming, Kelly recommends watering regularly but allowing the soil to dry between waterings. It’s also wise to pick up a pair of sharp secateurs, like these five-star-rated Gonicc 8" Professional Premium Titanium Bypass Pruning Shears, to deadhead any spent flowers to encourage growth.

Companion plants for coneflowers include black-eyed Susan, asters, and ornamental grasses. “However, avoid planting near other competitive perennials that can take over the area,” Kelly warns. 

6. Climbing roses

Hardiness Zones: 4-11, depending on the variety.

Type: Perennials

Container gardeners: listen up! If you thought a climbing rose was out of the question for your small garden space, you can think again. 

“Roses such as Oxford Girl Climbing Rose and some small shrub roses are excellent choices for container gardening,” Kelly advises us. “These roses have all the beauty and fragrance of larger roses but are compact enough to thrive in pots,” the expert adds. 

Coming in a variety of colors, including red, pink, yellow, and white, and with blooms ranging from 1 to 2 inches in diameter, these climbers do best when they get at least six hours of sunlight per day. So the height of summer is the best time to plant them. 

To help your rose grow, water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. However, Kelly highlights that container roses may need more frequent watering than garden-planted roses, especially during hot weather. “And remember to feed every 4-6 weeks with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for roses,” she adds. 

For more guidance on how to turn your garden into a rose garden, discover what our garden experts have to say. 

7. Lavender

Hardiness Zones: 5-9

Type: Perennial 

Lavender is popular for its fragrant flowers and aromatic foliage. Plus, growing lavender is easy as this sun-loving plant thrives in heat, and makes a great companion plant for other herbaceous perennials like thyme, rosemary, and sage. 

But why is now the time to plant it? “Planting lavender in late summer allows them time to settle in and develop strong root systems before cooler temperatures arrive,” Kelly says. 

This Lavender Grosso comes with a five-star rating and is not short of the calming fragrance it’s famed for. So get planting and once you've done so, water regularly ensuring the soil remains well-drained and not waterlogged. 

Meet our experts

Not quite sure what other flowers to plant in your garden? Discover the best flower bed ideas that are gorgeous, budget-friendly and ideal for both front and back yards. 

Much like fashion, garden styles come and go. Vintage landscaping design might be just what you need if you're tired of modern landscaping and you're yearning for the romanticism of yesteryear. 

The term 'vintage' encompasses a variety of gardening trends from different eras. Whether you're inspired by the architectural gardens of Paris, the romantic winding paths of an Italian villa, or the charming, wild, and carefree designs of an English country garden, there's a vintage style to suit every taste. 

While contemporary gardens with their minimalist planting and graphic designs are still popular, many are turning to the romantic style gardens of the past. Instead of "out with the old and in with the new," it's quite the reverse. Read on to discover the top 12 ways our experts recommend bringing a bit of vintage charm into your backyard.

1. Plant a wildflower garden

Wildflower gardens are all the rage these days, drawing inspiration from the charm of English meadows and romantic cottages. Setting one up is easier than you might think. 

To get started with a wildflower lawn, simply clear a large space, turn the soil, and scatter a mix of seeds. You'll typically find beauties like cornflowers, daisies, poppies, and marigolds in these mixes. These annual wildflower seeds are super easy to sow in mid-spring or early autumn, and many mixes even include grasses for that authentic meadow feel. 

Victoria Cummins, Senior Editor at Plant Whisperer tells us that  “Wildflower planting creates such a lovely, romantic cottage-garden vibe while also supporting crucial pollinators like bees and butterflies. "I think people are rediscovering wildflower gardens as concerns grow over declining bee populations. Plus, their relaxed, informal style is perfect for smaller modern gardens where space is at a premium”. 

For a truly natural look, scatter the seeds rather than planting them in neat rows. This approach works wonders on a large-scale lawn, creating a wild and overgrown feel. If you’re not quite ready to convert your entire lawn, try planting wildflowers as borders for a stunning effect. 

Short on space? No problem. You can still achieve this carefree, romantic vibe in a courtyard, balcony, or smaller garden with a potted wildflower garden. It's incredibly easy to grow and requires very little maintenance. For pots, choose a mix of annuals and perennials so you don’t have to replant every year.

2. Vintage pots and repurposed treasures

When we think of vintage landscaping, we often imagine sprawling gardens and acres of space. But you can still bring this charming cottagecore aesthetic to smaller areas. Whether it’s a modest front backyard or even a balcony. 

Forget sleek, modern styles and corten steel planters, embrace antique pots, repurposed sanitaryware, old watering cans, or even bicycles as plant containers. For a romantic, vintage look, seek out antique pots or containers that develop a beautiful patina over time. 

The variety of different textures will create the illusion that they’ve been part of the garden for years, like these galvanized planters from Walmart. Plant loose, unstructured flowers in these containers and mix and match different shapes, sizes, and finishes to avoid a rigid appearance. The key is to celebrate imperfection and really lean into the lack of structure and uniformity.

3. Carve out walkways with pretty cobblestones

While modern garden design favors structure, angles, and open space, vintage gardens draw inspiration from the romanticism of secret gardens and intricate details. To create this vintage vibe, consider adding winding pathways to connect different parts of your garden. 

Cobblestone paths, in particular, can add texture and evoke a sense of nostalgia for simpler times. As Steve Sylva, owner of Steves Services suggests, "Cobblestone paths add detail and texture. They evoke nostalgia for simpler times. These elements fell out of favor as minimalism and low-maintenance took over but they work well in small doses. Using reclaimed materials in a patio or path is an easy way to add vintage charm.” 

Lining these pathways with climbing plants and trees will enhance the secret garden feel. Incorporating cobblestones into your pathways brings a far more authentic feel when aiming to introduce old-world charm into your garden space. In contrast, more structured paving stones or smooth materials might feel out of place and fail to create the impression that your garden has always been there, quietly growing and evolving over time.

4. Decorate with antique urns and sculptures

If you're drawing inspiration from stunning Mediterranean villa gardens, sourcing antique garden decor can bring serious authenticity to your space. These elements can be woven into garden bed designs to create height and interest among beds of flowers or to decorate steps and seating areas to add floral and fauna elements. 

Unlike smaller pots, these pieces bring a slightly more palatial feel to a garden and give a nod to the grandeur of Mediterranean estates rather than the charm of an English country cottage. We love this vintage-style planter from Walmart for a rustic look.

Steve notes, "Vintage ornaments like urns, statues, and sundials make a statement. They were popular in grand estate gardens but can work in any sized space. Look for pieces with characters that showcase your style. You can source them from architectural salvage yards or commission reproductions. Place them carefully for maximum impact. Using bold elements in moderation is key.” 

5. Climbing plants to adorn the exterior walls of your home

While climbing flowers takes time to reach their full potential, they're well worth the effort in transforming your garden space, especially when reimagining a front yard. Wisteria is a classic favorite, and its sweet lilac flowers add charm to any wall. 

Climbers do exactly as their name suggests, scaling walls and covering fences, pergolas, trellises, sheds, and trees with a thick layer of wildlife-friendly foliage. If you can erect a support like a trellis, choose climbers like wisteria or climbing roses that can be tied to the framework. Wisterias prefer sunny positions, ample space, and sturdy support, and they need annual pruning. Climbing roses thrive in the sun or partial shade. Framing your porch with cascading wisteria blooms, a pretty rambling rose, or layers of clematis flowers creates a highly sought-after look for your front yard.  When choosing your climber, consider how it will complement the rest of your garden. 

Pam Hutter of Hutter Architects says, "Hardy varieties of ivy, wisteria, and roses that need less pruning are popular again. They provide shade and privacy in small spaces and can fuse your garden with your home by incorporating floral design all the way up to the house. Climbing plants were common in Victorian gardens but fell out of favor. Now, people want to make the most of vertical space and create outdoor rooms in their garden design.”

6. Invest in a gazebo

If you have the space and want to create some drama in your vintage-inspired garden, a wrought iron pergola or gazebo will do the trick. These large structures are unmissable and bring incredible romantic charm to any garden space. They also serve as brilliant spots to rest or dine, adding both functionality and beauty to your outdoor area. 

A pergola or gazebo can be a perfect structure for climbing plants like delicate lilac wisteria or rambling roses, which provide much-needed shade and enhance their use as relaxing or dining areas. 

The Victorian style in wrought iron is both charming and nostalgic, with intricate details that evoke a fairy-tale element. While sourcing an authentic gazebo from an architectural salvage yard will bring true vintage style to your garden, you can also find beautiful replicas, such as this stunning gazebo available at Wayfair. Over time, these replicas will weather beautifully, only adding to their authentic 'been there forever' charm. 

7. Bistro chairs and parasols

On a sunny afternoon in your rambling vintage garden, what could be more delightful than sitting back, smelling the roses, and enjoying an alfresco lunch? The intricate design and shady, secluded "secret garden" spaces are key to vintage garden design, so incorporating an outdoor dining area is a great way to enhance the experience. 

While modern gardens often confine outdoor dining areas to paved patios, the rustic nature of a vintage-inspired garden allows for a beautiful wrought iron table and chairs with a pretty parasol to be placed virtually anywhere. The looseness of the design only adds to the charm. If you're in a sunnier spot with less shade, invest in an umbrella, there are many nostalgic styles on the market, like this pretty outdoor umbrella from Wayfair. 

For furniture, look to wooden and wrought iron pieces. Joe Gerrier, owner of Gerrior Masonry advises, "Rustic wood furniture or wrought iron fits this laid-back style. Reclaimed wood seats with iron details are perfect for alfresco dining. Wood was underappreciated but is now valued for sustainability. Using bold vintage pieces sourced from salvage yards can really help achieve an authentic look."

8. Shape your hedges

While many elements of a vintage garden embrace romanticism, loose wild designs, and charming whimsical details, those who prefer a more manicured look can still capture the charm of gardens of yesteryear by incorporating topiary. For inspiration, look to grand French palaces like Versailles, which showcase incredible topiary. While most of us don’t have that much space to play with, you can bring these coiffured shrubs into your garden on a smaller scale. 

As Victoria Cummins, Senior Editor at Plant Whisperer tells us “ The sculptural elegance of intricate topiary designs is definitely enjoying a resurgence. While traditional topiary can be quite formal and labor-intensive, the modern interpretations I'm seeing are more playful and whimsical. Celebrities like Martha Stewart showcasing topiaries in their own gardens have likely helped drive this trend. Topiary is a fantastic way to add a touch of artistic flair and sophistication to the landscape.” 

When choosing the perfect shrub for your topiary journey, evergreens are particularly effective, and shrubs with small leaves and dense foliage, such as privet, are ideal. The more you clip, the smaller the leaves become, making it easier to achieve sharp outlines.  Experts recommend starting with an existing shrub rather than nurturing a young sapling. Retraining an old bush is often easier than starting from scratch, and even an overgrown topiary can be salvaged with an aggressive trim.

9. Picket fence

For the finishing touch on a vintage-inspired cottagecore garden, an iconic white picket fence is a must for framing the front garden. These freshly painted white wooden pieces provide a fantastic backdrop for brightly colored flowers peeking through. 

To truly wow your guests and create a charming entrance, consider investing in an ornamental arch gate. As well as adding much-needed nostalgic charm to a front garden, it’s a great structure for climbing plants such as rambling red roses or beautiful lilac wisteria. 

When these plants grow to their full height and tumble over the top, they’ll create a picturesque, vintage feel. The garden fence isn’t just for separating one space from another, if used as the entrance to your home, it sets the overall character of the front garden.

10. Swinging seat

If a bench feels too ordinary for your vintage garden, take it up a notch by installing a swinging seat. Few things are more dreamy than lounging on a swing on a summer evening, enjoying the beauty of your garden. If you have a porch, it's the perfect spot for a swing, as the shelter allows you to add cozy textiles. However, a swing seat can also be erected in the garden, provided you have a sturdy supporting structure. Ideally, choose a shaded area or a pergola structure. 

For true luxury, and if you have the space for it, you might even invest in a swinging day bed such as this brilliant dark wood version available at Wayfair. For smaller spaces or more secluded spots, a simple outdoor rope swing can add a touch of magic to your vintage garden. 

When perfectly pitched between two trees with some shade and surrounding flowers, it becomes a delightful retreat. Whether you opt for a classic swing or a more elaborate setup, this addition is a delightful spin on a more traditional garden lounge area. 

11. Rustic shelving

This look is a game-changer for transforming a small garden. When working with limited space, going vertical is a no-brainer to maximize greenery without taking up precious floor area. 

Shelving is an excellent solution for displaying a vast array of potted plants and flowers.  When designing a small vintage-inspired garden and considering shelves, a salvage yard is a great place to start. Keep your eye out for weathered wrought iron shelves, they look stunningly mounted on stone walls and are durable enough to withstand changing weather. 

Shelves with curled and intricate details look particularly pretty and you can mix and match different styles for an authentic, eclectic look. If mounting shelves is a problem, you can also find wonderful freestanding options. This shelving set from Amazon, with its ready-weathered finish, is perfect for a small vintage garden and ready to use right away. No drills needed! 

12. Install a water feature

A garden isn't just a space for a lawn and some plants; it's an extension of your home, brimming with character, personality, and a range of sensory experiences. Incorporating a water feature is a fantastic way to add another naturalistic element to your garden. 

Whether you’re carving out a brand new space for a water feature or reinventing an existing one, there are numerous ways to bring a vintage aesthetic to your garden. For a palatial look, consider installing a stone water fountain. This eye-catching statement piece can serve as the garden's focal point, around which everything else is framed. 

Stone fountains also look fantastic when set back in a secluded area, creating a calming space to relax. If you prefer a more natural and romantic aesthetic, a wildlife pond complete with floating plants such as water lilies and tall bullrushes can evoke a secret garden style. This creates a looser, more organic look compared to a structured water fountain. 

For smaller water features, many decorative containers can be repurposed. Bird baths, troughs, wooden barrels, or recycled metal buckets can all be turned into charming water features. Their naturally weathered patina will fit perfectly into a vintage garden, adding charm and character without overwhelming the space.

Embracing vintage garden landscaping means welcoming the beauty of imperfection. Planting becomes more relaxed, with mixed borders and climbers scrambling over vertical structures and surfaces. While neat and tidy gardens have their place, sometimes a garden truly thrives with a more laid-back approach. The structure still plays a role in some vintage designs, like formation planting and topiary, but the true romanticism of a bygone era lies in incorporating old treasures, allowing plants to roam freely, and creating a magical space that tells a story.

If your lawn is full of water, it's a good idea to fix this as soon as possible, so it doesn't damage your turf or grow moss or algae.

I've asked gardening and landscaping experts who have dealt with this how to make sure your lawn drains properly and adjust your lawn care practices to ensure it stays at the right moisture levels.

When taking care of your lawn, it's important to make sure it doesn't get too damp, as this can damage the area. Thankfully, if you are experiencing this issue, it's super easy to fix.

Step 1: Assess the damage

First of all, assess the extent of the waterlogging, as this will determine the steps you need to take next.

“Determine the severity and extent of the waterlogging,” says Tony O’Neill, gardening expert and founder of Simplify Gardening. 

From here, he says to identify areas that remain wet for extended periods and check for poor drainage signs, such as pooling water.

“We inspect the gutters and downspouts, ensuring water flows away from foundations,” adds Scott McLeod, landscaping expert and owner of McLeod Landscaping. 

Step 2: Improve soil drainage

The most important step for fixing a waterlogged lawn is aerating your lawn, as improving the soil drainage will ensure water runs through it properly. 

“Use a lawn aerator to punch holes into the soil, which helps improve air circulation and water drainage,” Tony explains. “Aeration should be done in the growing season when the grass is actively growing.”

If you don't have one to hand, the Gymax Rolling Garden Lawn Aerator from Walmart is a great choice as it's quick to assemble, is fast and efficient, and has a clever roller.

After doing this, he suggests applying a thin layer of sand or compost to the lawn to help improve soil structure and drainage over time. 

If you’re dealing with a more severe waterlogged lawn, you can also install French drains to direct excess water away from the lawn. You can either do this yourself or get a professional to do this for you.

Step 3: Adjust lawn care practices

Once you’ve got your lawn draining properly, you need to make sure you adapt your lawncare routine to help prevent future waterlogging. 

Tony says, “Reduce the frequency and amount of watering to prevent over-saturation. Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth.”

“You can also keep the grass slightly longer to help improve root strength and soil structure,” he adds.

Just make sure to avoid mowing the lawn with your best lawn mower when the area is wet to prevent soil compaction.

Step 4: Improve lawn grading

Tony recommends making sure your lawn is graded properly to facilitate lawn runoff.

“Regrade any low-lying areas that collect water to create a gentle slope away from the lawn,” he explains.

This can often involve adding or redistributing soil to achieve the desired slope. If yours is looking a little bumpy, you can learn how to level a lawn.

Step 5: Plant water-tolerant grass varieties

Another great way to ensure your backyard stays dry is by seeding your lawn with grass varieties that are more tolerant of wet conditions.

“Tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea) is known for its deep root system and tolerance to both drought and waterlogging,” Tony explains.

He also suggests trying perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne), as this establishes quickly and has a good tolerance.

By following these steps, you can ensure your grass looks gorgeous and is ready for you and your guests to enjoy. 

Tony says, “In my own garden, I dealt with a particularly stubborn waterlogged area by implementing aeration.”

“Over time, this method significantly improved the drainage and health of my lawn, allowing it to thrive even during rainy seasons,” he finishes by saying.

Want to ensure your lawn doesn’t get damaged again? Learning the lawn mowing mistakes not to make could also come in useful. 

If you want your lawn to look picture-perfect, removing clovers will make it look much neater.

I've asked gardening and landscaping pros for the key steps required to get rid of these, which are thankfully all easy to do. They're run through the two key removal methods — manual and chemical — as well as everything you need to know maintenance wise. 

For those caring for lawns and wanting to remove these wildflowers from your yard, these steps are all worth following.

Method 1: Manually getting rid of a clover lawn

The easiest way to remove clovers is by manually removing them. This might take a bit of time for those with larger backyards rather than small backyards, but it will mean you won't need to use any chemicals.

“Use a weeding tool to ensure you get the entire root system to prevent regrowth,” advises Tony O'Neill, gardening expert and founder of Simplify Gardening.

Not got one to hand? The Grampa's Weeder from Amazon has been loved by gardening pros for 100 years thanks to its easy maneuverability, its bamboo handle, and lightweight. 

Method 2: Chemically getting rid of a clover lawn

If you'd rather go for a fast and effective method, you can also remove the clover completely with weed killer.

“If you’re planning on reseeding after removing clover, I recommend killing the plant,” says Scott McLeod, landscaping expert and founder of McLeod Landscaping Inc. “I recommend Ortho Weed-B-Gon from Amazon, applying two or three times over two weeks.”

For larger infestations, Tony says to consider using a selective herbicide that targets clover but spares the grass. The Southern Amine Weed Killer from Amazon has a low economical use rate and can be sprayed on when mixed with water. 

Maintaining your lawn after getting rid of clover

Once you’ve removed clover from your lawn, it’s time to plant new grass and keep clover at bay. 

• New grass: First of all, aerate your lawn and soil, add compost, and bring in new grass seeds. “For New England, I prefer seed blends with ryegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, and fine fescue,” Scott suggests. “Make sure to fertilize new grass at three to four inches.”
• Fertilization: “Clover often grows in lawns with low nitrogen levels. Apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer to help your grass outcompete the clover,” says Tony. For instance, the Pennington Ultra Green Fertilizer from Amazon not only has high nitrogen levels but will also make your grass even greener.
• Watering: “Water your lawn deeply but infrequently to encourage deep grassroots,” explains Tony. “Clover prefers moist soil, so reducing surface moisture can help deter it.”

Mowing your lawn with your best lawn mower, watering and fertilizing regularly will establish the lawn in six to eight weeks. 

Clover lawn removal essentials

By applying one of these removal methods and establishing a new lawn that will deter clover, you’re sure not to have any more issues with it.

“In my own lawn, I struggled with clover patches for a few seasons. By increasing the mowing height and applying a nitrogen-rich organic fertilizer, I managed to create a healthier lawn that naturally outcompeted the clover,” Tony explains.

“This experience reinforced the importance of maintaining a balanced and nutrient-rich lawn care routine,” he finishes by saying.

Rather maintain this kind of lawn, rather than remove it? Learning how to grow a clover lawn will be more useful. Or, if grass is too much hassle for you, finding no-mow lawn alternatives could be better for you.

I've taken up vegetable gardening this year, and along the way I've learned many lessons. The big one? Don't grow more than you can handle.

I made this error, and quickly found myself panicking about how I was going to save my radish babies when I realized I had way too many in a couple of planters. So, I quickly grabbed the Jeria Grow Bags from Amazon and set about untangling roots and replanting them.

Thankfully, these have worked a treat, and my radishes are all now thriving. I've gone into everything you need to know about them and asked pro gardeners why they're such a great idea. Whether you've made vegetable gardening mistakes like I have or just want to grow veggies without spending a fortune on decorative planters, I definitely recommend trying them.

The grow bags that saved my radishes

Why I love the Jeria Grow Bags

When I first bought my Jeria Grow Bags, I was just looking for a simple, cost-effective solution for growing vegetables in my small backyard. I didn't want to spend $10 at a time for a planter — especially because I ended up having over 60 radish seedlings to re-plant.

But, it actually turns out that not only are grow bags economical, but they have serious benefits for the plants.

“Grow bags allow for ample aeration of the roots, which most vegetables need to thrive,” explains Marco Picano, gardening and landscaping expert at Picano Landscaping. “If you need to move the vegetables to follow the sun or for any other reason, the bags make this simple. The fabric sides of the bags also make it easy for gardeners to check on root health.”

I’m just growing radishes in my grow bags, but Marco says that vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers also grow brilliantly in these.

“Smaller veggies like radishes will do well in a five-gallon bag, while tomatoes need at least a 20-gallon bag,” he adds.

If you’re growing plants in bags like me, Marco also suggests using high-quality potting mix instead of garden soil, as this will provide better drainage and aeration. For example, the Miracle-Gro Potting Mix from Amazon have over 20,000 five star reviews from shoppers who say it produces incredibly healthy plants. 

My extra radishes are now doing just fine in a 10-gallon bag, thankfully. I moved them a couple of weeks ago, and they’ve gone from having small leaves to having huge ones and much bigger heads. 

I’m hoping that I’ll be able to harvest them soon enough and enjoy them in my salads. I have grown a few radishes successfully in regular planters and, while they were a little small, they were utterly delicious.

More Amazon gardening picks

If you're looking for more vegetable gardening solutions, these Amazon gardening deals are all on sale now, but grab them while stocks (and deals) last!

All prices correct at time of publication.

These Amazon grow bags have transformed my small backyard vegetable garden, and I know I’m going to end up getting more for my winter crops.

“With the right care and maintenance, grow bags can yield a successful harvest. They are a gardening game changer,” Marco finishes by saying.

Over planting isn’t the only problem I’ve had when gardening — I also had to get rid of aphids in my vegetable garden, which I did easily thanks to one household item.

Sensory gardens have the impressive power to tap into our five basic senses through touch, taste, sound, smell and sight and you can make your own at home, no matter how small your backyard.

Our expert landscapers share how to make your own magical sensory garden, packed full of immersive intrigue and wonder, using rain chains, kaleidoscopic color, mixed textures and so much more. 

These sensory garden design ideas tick all the boxes, and will help you cultivate a soul-soothing outdoor space, created with accessibility in mind and catering for all ages and abilities.

How to start designing your sensory garden

When you think about it, all gardens evoke sensory experiences. No matter whether you’re working with a small backyard, container garden or herb garden — any outside space can have a lasting effect on your mood, stress levels and help you feel connected to nature. 

However, according to Penn State University’s master gardener, Melissa Johnson, sensory gardens go one step further. She says, “Sensory gardens are designed to stimulate and foster interaction with plants representing the five senses."

Therefore, to design one, Tabar Gifford, partnership cultivator and master gardener at American Meadows, suggests figuring out your audience, considering how much space you’ve got to work with, and starting small. 

“Consider how you’ll engage the senses,” Tabar says. “What do you see? What can you smell? What do you hear? What can you feel? What can you taste? Start with those key components and work from there."

Tabar also recommends researching your plants and omitting anything poisonous, or known to cause allergic reactions to humans and pets alike. We have a guide on plants that are toxic to cats and dogs to get you started on your research stage.

“A sensory garden invites hands-on engagement, so safety should be top of your mind when designing the space, and choosing what to include,” Tabar says. 

1. Include water features

Trickling water features, bird baths and rain chains can help introduce some zen sounds into your garden. You could also include a wind chime or wind catchers. 

Adding in auditory elements can be even more subtle yet, and make use of a feature you already have, or were planning on anyway.

"Hearing can also be engaged by using crunchy pea gravel as the pathway,” says Kat Aul Cervoni, founder and principal of Staghorn NYC Landscape Design and The Cultivation by Kat. “While ornamental grasses beautifully rustle in the breeze, and the dried seed pods of poppies can be rattled by hand.”

2. Lean into a kaleidoscope of colors

Most gardens aren't short of color. But to inject some added hues into your sensory space, consider doing so with plants, decorations and outdoor furniture. 

“Leaning into the sight sense in the garden can be the most versatile and personalizable zone in the sensory garden,” Alexander Betz, founder of Plant by Number says. 

“This is your chance to add in that unique, one-off garden decoration that catches your eye, play with plant colors by arranging them in rainbow order or putting contrasting colors together, or adding trailing plants that make the garden visitor look up,” Alexander continues. 

Wondering what plants shades to pick? Or how to choose a color scheme in your garden? Cool and light colors can open up a space and make it feel larger, our expert reveals, while warm and dark colors such as reds, oranges, bright yellows, and dark purples can make a large space more intimate. 

3. Include heavily scented plants

The best fragrant garden plants are a great way to stimulate your sense of smell and Alexander agrees. 

He says, "The calming aroma of lavender, rosemary’s invigorating scent, and the sweet perfume of jasmine are great choices that not only smell amazing but also attract beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies." To make the most of their aromatic qualities, Alexander recommends planting them near seating areas and walkways. 

4. Add edible plants for seasonal interest

Whether it’s rosemary, basil or bay, creating your own little herb garden can be a practical and decorative design idea to tick off 'taste' in your sensory garden. The same goes for starting a kitchen garden in your backyard with fruit and veg, as you’ll have different plants in bloom all year long. 

“Edible plants are a particularly exciting way to highlight the change in seasons in your sensory garden,” Linda Vater of Southern Living Plant Collection, tells Real Homes. “For example, while blueberries are a beloved summertime garden snack, they offer additional interest in spring and fall. The senses remind us that nature is always changing and offering an exciting new story each season, and the garden is a wonderful place to experience this."

5. Mix and match textures you'll want to touch

To invite the power of 'touch' into your garden, look for plants that are particularly engaging and packed with texture. 

"You’ll be looking for plants that are safe to touch and interesting from a tactile perspective,” Kat reiterates. “Plantings with interesting textures such soft, fuzzy leaves or tactile deadheads are perfect for touch. Some examples include coneflower, moss, ornamental grasses like sporobolus, and Rhus “Tiger Eyes” for its velvety branches.”

Along with being easy to care for, these Echinacea Sombrero Granada Gold come highly rated, scoring 4 stars out of 5, and will inject some interesting textures into your outdoors.

Meet our experts

So there you have it. Sensory gardens can be tailored to you and your likes and dislikes. But either way you think about it, “A sensory garden is a designed space filled with plants and materials that engage the senses,” Kasey Bersett Eaves, founder of Vivant Gardening Services, explains. “It's meant to be therapeutic and enjoyable for people of all ages and abilities.” And that includes children. So, now you know how to create a sensory garden, check out these garden ideas for kids to make your space suitable for all ages. 

Ever wondered how to aerate a lawn and achieve that professional finish? Well, you’re in the right place.

Lawns require more than a regular water, trim and weed. In fact, the art of maintaining a healthy lawn relies on the balance of a host of techniques, including how often and how well its aerated.

If you’re new to lawn care, or a seasoned pro looking for some additional tips, our experts are on-hand to help. But, first of all, let’s dive into why it’s important not to skip this step when working on your yard this summer.

What is aerating a lawn?

Lawn aeration is the process of poking small holes into the soil to improve the circulation of air flow into this area of your yard. It helps to alleviate any soil compaction, which can impact the health of your grass, and allow water, air and other nutrients to penetrate the soil.

Aerating your lawn can improve the health and longevity of your grass, so it remains vigorous and rich every single year. Alongside, letting out any build up of carbon dioxide, aeration helps combat any thatch. That's the dried, brown grass that collects when you mow your lawn.

Bryan Clayton CEO, GreenPal explains: "Your lawn gets a lot of foot traffic—kids playing, backyard BBQs, you name it. Over time, this traffic compacts the soil, making it as hard as a rock. When your soil is compacted, it’s tough for anything to get through; water, nutrients, and air can’t penetrate effectively.”

“Aeration comes in to break up this compacted soil, literally giving your grass a breath of fresh air. It punctures the ground, creating holes that allow all the good stuff to reach the grass roots.”

If you don’t aerate your lawn, then the roots can't get the water or nutrients they need, which can prohibit further growth of your lawn, as the soil becomes dense and compressed.

To keep it healthy, aerate your lawn twice a year, using a handy tool such as the manual Vanpein core aerator from Amazon.

How to aerate your lawn

Our experts share the step-by step process to aerate your lawn well.

Step 1: Wait for the right weather

It’s important to aerate your lawns during the spring or autumn months, as the grass needs to be moist in order to aerate it well, but whilst avoiding heavy saturation.

If there’s been high rainfall the day before, wait a few days to aerate your lawn when the moisture has dried up a bit. If you were to let that rainwater fully penetrate into the soil by aerating, this could over-saturate your lawn and leave it water logged.

Similarly, if your grass has dried out during hot and humid periods, wait to aerate until the weather changes and there is some rainfall. After all, it’s easier to penetrate soft soil than parched summer soil.

Step 2: Decide on method of aeration

There are three different types of aeration: plug aerators, spike aerators and liquid aerators.

Core or plug aerators, such as the bestselling Agri-Fab 48-inch Plug Lawn Aerator from Lowe's, are widely regarded as the most efficient method, as it extracts a plug of soil to allow a deeper access to the lawn.

Whereas, spike aerators (such as the Meoligr aerating tool with wide foot plate from Amazon) simply poke holes into the ground, without removing any of the existing soil. Sometimes this can compress the soil further, so core or plug aerators are considered the better option.

Liquid aeration is mainly on lawns where physical aerators would be less effective, as the weather conditions or soil make it difficult to penetrate into the grass root layer.

The size of your lawn can impact the method of aeration you might want to use. For small spaces, a manual tool to aerate the lawn such as the spike or plug aerator.

If you have a larger lawn, it might be worth investing in an electric aerator, as long as you have the space to store it.

Step 3: Aerate the soil

Using your chosen tool, make your way across your lawn and create small holes in the grass. These holes need to be around five inches deep with a six-inch gap between sections to ensure there is enough space for the air to circulate and water to seep into the roots.

"Aerating your lawn can feel like a miracle cure," Bryan says. "This rejuvenation makes your grass thicker and healthier. Also, those holes left by the aerator? They’re perfect for overseeding. Throw some seed down after aerating, and you're essentially hitting the refresh button on your lawn."

Step 4: Water your lawn

When you’ve finished aerating your lawn, it’s time to give it a generous drink. Allow the soil to soak up some of this moisture to start the revitalizing process of nurturing and growing your grass.

Steo 5: Repeat

For the best results, repeat this entire process at another point in the year. Pick a date in the spring and one in the autumn and mark it on your calendar, so that weather permitting, your lawn is booked for an aeration twice a year.

"Aerating at least once a year, particularly during the fall, preps your lawn to be lush and green come spring," Bryan adds.

"More times don't hurt, but hitting that once-a-year mark is crucial for maintaining a healthy yard."

You can learn about other yard jobs on our dedicated gardening calendar.

Now you have aerating your lawn under firm control, learn about the mowing mistakes to avoid, and how to seed a patchy lawn.

If you’re questioning what plants to prune in August, prepare to be enlightened because we’ve done all the digging and consulted a gardening guru on what greenery you should tackle this month. 

Plants are like people. Meaning? Along with food and water, most shrubs require some tender loving care (read: pruning) to help them thrive. If done so at the right time, pruning your plants can work wonders for flower bud formation, shape, and the overall health of your plant. Cutting back stems and browning blooms can also remove unsightly growth. 

To help your garden thrive during the warmer months of the year and beyond, it’s a good idea to learn what to prune in summer. 

The flowers, shrubs and plants to prune in August, according to an expert 

You can get started by keeping a month-by-month calendar of garden jobs so you know the tasks to address and when.

Grab a pair of the best secateurs and keep scrolling to see what a gardening expert has to say. 

1. Wisteria

Requiring two rounds of pruning, first in January/ February and then again in August, wisteria might not be considered one of the best low-maintenance garden plants to feature in your outside space. But with its masses of lilac-purple blooms and lush green foliage, this climbing plant does tick all the boxes when it comes to the top Regency garden ideas.

To keep the vines under control, Guy Barter, chief horticulturist at the Royal Horticultural Society, suggests shortening new shoots to about five or six leaves. Typically, wisteria can climb more than 33 ft in height and width (yes, really!). So if your wisteria has grown too tall, Guy recommends leaving the branches to their own devices and keeping them out of harm's way.  

He says, “They will flower well enough and it is not worth the risk and trouble of attempting to prune these very tall plants.”

2. Apple and pear trees

Apple and pear trees are also in need of late summer pruning. However, it’s important to note that we’re only talking about pruning the space-saving restricted forms of apple and pear trees in this instance. So fruit trees that are 'fan' trained. 

Therefore, this pruning guidance would only apply to the likes of espaliers or cordons which you may even find growing in small backyards because they can attach to a fence. 

To prune them correctly, Guy says, “Shorten new shoots to a few leaves once the tips are beginning to firm which encourages flowers (and therefore fruit buds) to form.  Leave little whippy shoots as they often have terminal flowers.”

3. Philadelphus

The philadelphus is a deciduous shrub which, in the US, also goes by the name of ‘mock orange’, thanks to its heavy scent of orange blossom. The philadelphus lewisii variety is the state flower of Idaho, and flowers during summer, keeping its foliage throughout spring, summer, and autumn. 

To keep these easy-to-grow shrubs compact and well-presented, pruning is essential in August. 

“Early summer flowering shrubs such as Philadelphus are pruned as soon as possible [during this month] removing much or even all the shoots that have flowered to as close to the ground as feasible,” Guy tells us. “This keeps bushes compact and leaves the shoots that will flower well-presented for the following year’s blooms.”

To prune your philadelphus, remove much or even all the shoots that have flowered to as close to the ground as feasible. “Typically this will involve removing 25% of the shoots,” Guy adds. Or if you like the look of this shrub and want to plant it in your garden, we recommend this First Editions Snow White Mock Orange because it will bloom twice and year and make your garden smell of oranges first in spring, then again in summer. 

4. Gooseberries

If you've started growing your own fruit after learning how to create a kitchen garden, then you may have gooseberries growing by the dozen. 

If that’s the case, August is also the time to prune these prickly plants which grow round, grape-like berries. 

“Gooseberries are pruned by shortening all the new growth,” Guy explains. “They fruit on older shoots, so younger ones are shortened to just five leaves or so. Choose upward pointing buds to counter the drooping habit of gooseberry growth.”

Failure to prune these shoots can result in trailing branches which can become a tangled and congested mess. So grab a pair of the best gardening gloves to protect your hands from any scratches or pricks and get pruning. 

5. Roses

Helping to add some color, scent, and softness to harsh structures or blank spaces, rambling roses are long-loved favorites in the gardening world — and for good reason. Interested in adding one to your space? This Zephirine Drouhin Climbing Rose is a good pick because many of these large flowers have as many as 25-30 petals each!

Just know: unlike a climbing rose or a shrub rose, after June these rambling variates won’t repeat flower. 

So, while you won’t need to learn how to deadhead roses on this occasion, you will need to prune them in August to make sure the plant grows vigorously and flowers well the following year. 

“Rambling roses that have finished flowering are pruned in late summer,” Guy says. “Take out all stems that have flowered, tie in their younger replacements and shorten side shoots.”

6. Deciduous hedges

If you’ve mastered the art of how to improve privacy in your garden, you may have added some hedges to your outdoor space, to up the levels of seclusion. 

If so, and they are of the deciduous kind (so shed their leaves during the autumn or winter), according to Guy, August is the time to prune these. 

“Deciduous hedges, like beech and hornbeam for example, can be pruned in late summer,” Guy tells us. “They will soon regrow to leave a lovely mossy finish until the leaves fall. Great care must be taken to ensure no nesting birds are present,” the expert flags. 

To cut back your deciduous hedges, dig out your best gardening tools and trim with a pair of shears or a hedge trimmer. “Ensure the bottom is slightly wider than the top, otherwise the top can dominate and the base can die out,” Guy adds. 

7. Evergreen hedges and topiary

Whether you’ve got yew, California privet, or cherry laurel, August is the month to prune these green goods with one of the best hedge trimmers or one of the best cordless hedge trimmers so they will regrow with a smooth finish that will persevere until winter. 

To do so, “Trim with shears or a hedge cutter for those with large leaves, like cherry laurel for example,” Guy advises. “Then carefully cut back with secateurs to avoid unsightly damaged leaves.” 

Just remember: birds love hedges, so before pruning topiary, care must be taken to avoid disturbing wildlife, Guy warns. 

The greenery you shouldn't prune in August

After all that pruning, it can be tempting to go full steam ahead and tidy up some of your wilting border plants or remove dying branches elsewhere in your garden. 

But before you put secateurs to shrubs or start tidying up your trees, Guy says these are the two pieces of greenery that shouldn’t be pruned right now.

“It’s best not to do much pruning until after leaf fall as plants may be weakened and less able to withstand winter,” the expert tells us. “Also, [shrubs and trees] may attempt to regrow and frosts might damage the tender young shoots.”

So, when should you prune them? “Leave evergreen shrubs until spring as they don’t go properly dormant and need their foliage to survive winter,” Guy adds.

Meet our expert

Now that you’re in the know about what plants to prune in August, you might be interested to learn about the seven flowers you don’t have to deadhead — so put those secateurs away. 

Or, if you’re keen on adding some low-maintenance garden ideas to your outside space, so you can spend more time enjoying your outdoors and less time maintaining it, do check out our fuss-free guide. 

You might be wondering if you need to deadhead azaleas if keeping your flowers in tip-top condition all year round is important to you.

To get to the bottom of that question, we’ve asked an azalea pro on everything there is to know about deadheading azaleas and whether you should even remove the browning flower heads in the first place. 

Of course, ensuring the greenery in your garden stays happy and healthy requires some work. Therefore it’s a good idea to keep a month-by-month calendar of garden jobs so you know what needs planting, protecting, and feeding throughout the year..

Do you need to deadhead azaleas?

If you're thinking about what to prune in summer, azaleas may be first on your list. Kathy Jentz, host of the GardenDC Podcast, you don't need to deadhead azaleas. 

“You can pick off all the spent blooms if you don't like the look of spent flowers hanging around for a bit (and have lots of extra time on your hands!),” Kathy says. “But it does nothing to help the plant's health nor does it encourage or help reblooming or future flowering in any way." 

One of the great things about these shade-loving plants is that they have self-shedding flowers. "So deadheading is unnecessary," Kathy adds. 

Would deadheading azaleas damage them?

In one word: yes! “Deadheading can interfere with seed production,” Kathy explains. “So if you want to try to gather seeds from your azalea shrubs, do not deadhead them.”

Azaleas are one flower you don't have to deadhead. However, if you don’t like the spent white blossoms that turn brown before falling off, you could always set some time aside to pick them off. 

“Again, that is a matter of personal preference and taste,” Kathy adds. “It has nothing to do with the plant's health or promoting more blooms as it might on other kinds of plants such as many perennial flowers.”

Doing so won’t damage the shrubs just as long as you’re plucking them by hand and not using pruners or snips. 

To pick off the spent flowers, Kathy advises, “Grasping the spent blossom and plucking it out. Gather them in a bucket and compost them, rather than leaving them scattered on the ground. You should not use pruners or snips to deadhead as you may cut back the growth tips the plants need to generate more flowers next season.”

If you want to start composting, these are the bins to buy. And if you're yet to learn how to start composting, we asked gardening experts how you can make your own.

Dos and don’ts: top tips for pruning azaleas

So, while you won’t need to deadhead Azaleas, these funnel-shaped flowers join the list of things to prune in spring. 

“Prune any branches that are dead, diseased or damaged at any point that you notice these issues,” Kathy says. “Otherwise, azaleas should only need pruning if they become crowded or overgrown due to neglect or planting them in the wrong spot.”

To keep your blooms looking their best this year and the next, do: 

• Prune small branches when the plant is in bloom (and enjoy them inside the house) or soon after. Want to know how to keep your flowers fresh longer once they’ve been cut? Make sure you bookmark these tips. 
• Major pruning in early spring before the plant is ready to put out new growth, so it has the full growing season to fill out and for the new growth to mature.
• Prune azaleas to reduce height. With older plants, it is best to do the pruning in stages, to minimize the shock to the plant.
• Remove dead branches first. As the expert members of the Azalea Society of America point out: the effect of removing them may alter the way you approach pruning the rest of the branches to maintain the shape of the bush.
• Remove two or three of the tallest branches, taking care to cut back to a side branch that is heading in the desired direction. 
• Cut close to a side branch, as stubs tend to die back to the side branch and leave dead wood which may become infected later. 
• Mulch around the shade plant if you remove a lot of the branches to make up for the reduced shade on the roots.  The new shoots, which will appear when the weather warms up, may come from the stubs and from the base of the plant.

Don't: 

• Use unsterilized cutters. Sterilize them as the work progresses, particularly after a cut in infected wood. Denatured alcohol, like Sunnyside’s Denatured Alcohol which has scored 4.5 stars on Amazon, is an effective sterilizing agent, as is rubbing alcohol or household bleach. 

Should you deadhead rhododendrons?

Azaleas belong to the Rhododendron genus as they are a sub-group within this family. If you have one of these plants in your garden or blooming in a pot, you might be questioning: should you deadhead rhododendrons? 

Kathy says, "You can deadhead large-flowering rhododendrons to neaten their appearance and to reduce the number of seeds being set.

“Once the flowers start to wilt, find the central axis of the cluster, called a truss, and push on it to the side with your thumb and it will snap free. Take care not to damage the growth buds or new shoots located just below the flower cluster.”

For more tips on how to care for hydrangeas, guidance on where to plant hydrangeas in your garden, and simple reasons and quick fixes for why your hydrangea's not blooming in your green space, discover our range of gardening advice. 

Meet our expert

For more information on how to deadhead hydrangeas, visit our expert-backed guide with top tips on what you’ll need and when to do it. Plus, to ensure your garden thrives this month (and beyond), discover how to deadhead roses and the 7 plants you should prune in August. 

I'm growing vegetables for the first time ever, and I've quickly found out that it's not as easy as it looks when playing farming games.

I've made a bunch of mistakes on the way that I've learned not to make, which I'm sharing with you all so you don't do what I did. I also asked gardening pros for errors they commonly see, as well as their advice for fixing them. Overcrowding (guilty!) and poor soil preparation (also guilty!) are a couple of common errors that cropped up.

If you're growing vegetables in a small backyard like I am, I definitely recommend finding out what not to do, so you can grow veggies effectively and so your hard work isn't wasted.

1. Planning poorly

When I first started planning my outdoor gardening area, I bought some strawberry seeds with the vision of having delicious fruit for summer. But, after checking the back of the packet, I realized I was way too late for this.

“Planting fruit vegetables outside their optimal growing season can result in poor germination, stunted growth, and low yields,” says Tony O’Neill, gardener at Simplify Gardening.

“Always check the recommended planting times for your specific climate zone,” he says. 

Tony suggests using a gardening calendar or an app to keep track of planting dates. This is advice that I’m taking on board, so I’ve downloaded the Planter Garden app, which users say is brilliant for planning layouts and is packed with useful info.

It's also a good idea to make sure you have enough planters for all your crops before you start. I had to quickly grab a bunch of containers when I realized I had lots of seeds.

2. Overcrowding plants

I just made the mistake of overcrowding my radishes, and I had to spend hours untangling the roots and planting in brand new containers properly spaced out.

“Overcrowded plants compete for nutrients, water, and light, leading to weaker plants and reduced yields,” Tony says.

“Follow the recommended spacing guidelines on seed packets or plant labels, then thin seedlings as needed to ensure proper spacing,” he says.

I grabbed planter bags similar to the Jeria Grow Bags from Amazon with over 10,000 five-star reviews. From here, I added soil to them and carefully spaced out my seedlings, giving them much more room to grow.

3. Growing too many crops

I’m going to be honest — I was a little too ambitious when growing my radishes. I used two seed packets and now, while I have lots of healthy seedlings, my backyard is unofficially a radish farm.

“Be honest with yourself and carefully decide how many seeds you can realistically nurture into adulthood,” says Anastasia Borisevich, plant expert at Plantum.

“It’s better to grow just a few healthy seedlings than to lose a colony of seeds,” she adds.

Instead of scattering many seeds and hoping for the best like I did, I recommend planting individual seeds in small holes in the soil, before covering them up. I’m going to try this for the next crops I grow.

4. Ignoring pest management

I’m growing spring onions, which I’m very excited about. But, when their shoots sprouted up, I could see that I had little black dots on them. This meant I had to deal with an aphid infestation in my backyard.

“Pests diseases dramatically reproduce themselves and can devastate the garden at any one time in few days,” says Matthew Wilson, gardener at Handy Gardeners.

“I advise monitoring plants closely, and using organic pest control methods if required to get rid of them,” he says.

To remove them, I spritzed my plants lightly with a mix of dish soap and water, before wiping them off with kitchen towel. 

I also added netting on top of my plants (the Garden Tailor Netting from Amazon comes in nine different sizes), to stop them from coming back and spreading to my other crops.

I have also heard that it's beneficial to find plants that repel pests outdoors, so I'm going to try growing some rosemary and basil.

5. Forgetting to label crops

Labeling is an important part of growing seeds, allowing you to quickly glance at your gardening space and see what is where.

“Write your plant’s name and the date of sowing on a stick and put it in the soil,” Anastasia explains. “This way, you won’t mistake a tomato for a cucumber, or a rose for an oleander.”

Many seed packets will come with labels you can peel off and put in the ground. Luckily, I spotted that mine had these before throwing them away. If yours don’t, I recommend saving popsicle sticks and writing on these for a sustainable solution.

By fixing these vegetable gardening mistakes, I’ve managed to grow crops successfully, and have been able to enjoy fresh meals with my newly-grown goods, which has been seriously rewarding.

If you’re sorting out your yard and want to carry on solving problems, learning backyard privacy mistakes could also come in handy.

Vegetable gardening essentials

When it comes to quickly adding color and texture to your flowerbeds, hydrangeas are some of the best blooms to bring in. 

Vanilla Strawberry hydrangeas (hydrangea paniculata 'Renhy') change with the seasons, going from creamy white in midsummer, to light pink when temperatures start to drop, and finally land on being strawberry red in fall. I've got you covered with expert advice from gardeners on how to grow them so they produce beautiful blooms throughout the seasons.

For those wanting to take care of hydrangeas and are looking for specific advice for the Vanilla Strawberry variety, these tips and tricks will help you out. 

What is the difference between Vanilla Strawberry hydrangeas and regular hydrangeas?

Before you start to grow Vanilla Strawberry hydrangeas, it’s important to know the difference between them and regular ones.

“Vanilla Strawberry hydrangeas are a type of panicle hydrangea, known for their cone-shaped flower clusters that transition from white, to pink, to rich red,” explains Tony O'Neill, gardener and founder of Simplify Gardening

“This variety is more sun-tolerant and cold-hardy compared to many other hydrangeas, such as the mophead or lacecap varieties (hydrangea macrophylla),” he adds.

It's also important to know before you start growing these plants that you can’t propagate them, as this is illegal due to it being a patented plant. 

Instead, you can pick it up from a nursery or plant retailer. For example, the Vanilla Strawberry Hydrangeas from The Sill are perfect for pollinators and last year after year.

Plus, it's worth noting they're hardy in USDA zones 3-8 and will grow in most areas of the country.

Now you’re all clued up, you can follow the steps below to ensure they grow properly and come back every year.

Step 1: Choose the right location

First of all, it's important to choose where to plant hydrangeas in your garden, as this can affect how your flowers grow.

“The spot you choose to plant in should have morning sun to afternoon shade,” explains Matthew Wilson, gardener and CEO of Handy Gardeners.

If the space you choose is too sunny, he says this will scorch the flowers, but part shade can also hinder blooming. So, it’s important to get the balance right.

Step 2: Prepare the soil

Give your flowers the best chance for growth by pairing up the soil with the right fertilizer.

“Add a balanced, slow-acting fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer. Avoid high nitrogen fertilizers since they spur leaf growth but not as many blooms,” says Matthew.

He also says to consider a hydrangea-specific fertilizer (the Miracle-Gro Acid-Loving Plant Food from Amazon works on azaleas, hydrangeas and rhododendrons) , as this can bring out the color and growth of this plant.

“Vanilla Strawberry hydrangeas prefer well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH,” adds Tony. “Amending the soil with compost can improve fertility and drainage.”

Instead of buying this, you can learn how to make compost at home in order to nourish your flowers sustainably.

Step 3: Plant them properly

When planting your hydrangeas, picking the right time will ensure they have the best chance of survival. In their case, Tony advises planting them in spring or fall.

“Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball, then put the plant in the hole,” Tony says. 

From here, all you need to do is backfill this with soil and water the area thoroughly.

Step 4: Stay on top of watering

Make sure to keep on top of watering your hydrangeas — just like us humans, plants need to stay hydrated.

“Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the first year after planting,” Tony says. “Be sure to water deeply at the base of the plant to encourage deep root growth.”

During dry spells, Tony recommends water one to two times a week to maintain soil moisture. 

Step 5: Prune at the right time

Once your Vanilla Strawberry hydrangeas have started to grow, make sure to prune them in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. 

“Remove any dead or damaged wood and thin out crowded branches to improve air circulation,” Tony explains.

He continues, “To shape the plant, cut back the stems by one-third to promote strong, healthy growth and abundant blooms.”

Matthew agrees, saying to make sure to cut back to healthy buds, but not to do this hard as this will reduce flowering.

If you’re in need of some shiny new pruners, I like the look of the Gonicc Professional Premium Titanium Bypass Pruning Shears from Amazon, which have over 20,000 five-star reviews from shoppers who rate the quality material and the ease of use.

Step 6: Keep an eye out for pests and diseases

If you've followed the first five steps and your hydrangeas aren't blooming properly, it might be because pests or diseases have invaded your space. 

“I recommend keeping an eye out and searching for signs of bugs including aphids or the mites of spiders,” Matthew says.

Aphids love younger plants, which I found out in my own yard. Luckily, I learned how to remove aphids from a vegetable garden, spritzing them with a mix of soap and water, and wiping them away with kitchen towel.

Matthew also advises not to overwater your hydrangeas, in order to minimize fungal infections on the plant. 

Step 7: Protect during winter

Even when your hydrangeas aren’t in full bloom, it’s still important to take care of them throughout the year.

Matthew explains, “In order to help them survive severe winter conditions, cover the roots and the zone around the root with a thick layer of mulch,” he says.

“Mulching around the base can also help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature,” Tony adds.

This doesn’t need to be expensive, either — for example, the Miracle-Gro Organic All Natural Mulch from Amazon is under $4.

Vanilla Strawberry hydrangea growing essentials

They might take a little bit of work, but results of these flowers are well worth the effort.

“In my own backyard, I’ve found that Vanilla Strawberry hydrangeas are a delightful addition due to their stunning color transformation,” Tony says.

“Proper pruning and regular watering have been key to achieving lush, vibrant blooms that stand out in the landscape,” he finishes by saying.

If you’re looking to get even more creative with your hydrangea planting, learning how to change the color of your hydrangeas may also come in useful.

If you've got lots of ants in your backyard, you don't have to resort to nasty chemicals in order to remove them. Instead, try planting greenery that will ward them off instead.

I've asked gardening pros for the ones they recommend adding to your yard, and they're all easy to bring in and maintain. From flowers like luscious lavender to herbs like beautiful basil, there are plenty of options to try.

If you're trying to get rid of ants in your backyard, I recommend getting your gardening gloves on and going for natural solutions such as these.

1. Basil

This herb is a great choice for your backyard, as it will also provide a delicious fragrance as well as repelling ants.

“Basil strongly smells of oils like eugenol, which is a real turn-off for ants and other pests,” explains Matthew Wilson, gardener at Handy Gardeners.

He recommends planting this in rich, well-drained soil with full sun, as well as pinching off flowers to promote leaf growth and retain the repellency of the plant.

2. Mint

Mint is such a brilliant all-rounder, with it not only tasting wonderful in cool drinks but also repelling ants effectively.

“Ants avoid mint due to the barrier of the menthol oils found in the mint herb,” Matthew says. “The fast growth and the spreading form of this herb makes it a relatively good ground cover.”

If you don’t want it to do this, Matthew suggests growing it in containers to keep its growth under check. 

“I also advise regularly harvesting the leaves for use in cooking, which will help the plant stay in good health and in a potent stage of its life cycle,” he adds.

3. Lavender

I have a lavender plant in my backyard where I’m also growing vegetables, so I’m thrilled that not only does it smell good, but it is also working to deter ants from my outdoor space.

Matthew explains, “Lavender, with its key ingredients or oils, such as linalool, produces a fragrance that repels ants while making your yard look good.

“Planting lavender around entry points like patios, decks, and foundations creates a barrier against ants,” adds Sal Musto, gardener and landscaping expert at SalCorp Landscaping & Construction.

Just make sure to prune it regularly even after it blooms, in order to allow it to maintain its form and strong scent.

4. Lemongrass

For those who are trying to repel mosquitos from their backyards as well as ants, lemongrass is worth trying.

“Lemongrass contains citronella, which is a compound with ant-repellent properties. The essential oils from these plants can also be used to make natural ant spray by mixing a few drops with water in a spray bottle,” Sal explains.

“Apply the spray around doorways, windowsills, and any cracks or crevices where ants may enter,” he suggests.

If you’re keeping your spray bottle outside, it’s worth finding one made with a durable material such as glass, such as the LiBa Glass Spray Bottles from Walmart which are BPA-free.

5. Rosemary

This is another aromatic herb that can be used to freshen up your backyard and enhance your cooking.

Matthew explains, “Rosemary's aromatic oils — camphor and cineole — repel ants while beautifying the garden itself with a great fragrance.”

He says to plant it in sandy, fast-draining soil in full sun, and to stay on top of pruning in order to keep it bushy and to allow it to release more oils.

Ant repellent essentials

To maximize the effectiveness of these ant-repellant plants, Sal suggests grouping several of them together.

“Adding these natural repellents along with good yard maintenance like removing food sources and sealing any entry points is the best approach to controlling ants,” he finishes by saying.

Dealing with ants up high as well as down low? Learning how to keep ants off your hummingbird feeder may also come in useful.

Planting out hydrangeas, whether in containers or in flowerbeds, is a great way to create a colorful garden. These impressive blooms offer up a lengthy summer display and they're pretty simple to get started with. 

We asked gardening and landscaping experts to break down the process, step-by-step. This easy five-step planting method ensures your hydrangeas are getting the best light, soil, and watering schedule.

Getting these plants in the ground is the first step in caring for hydrangeas, resulting in pink, blue, and purple flowers all season long.

When is the best time to plant hydrangeas?

The best planting time for hydrangeas is in late spring, after the last frost, or early fall before the first frost. However, you can plant out small plants anytime over summer if the weather isn't too dry or too hot. 

If you've purchased a new plant or have recently propagated a hydrangea then you're best to get the hydrangeas planted out as soon as possible. If you're not planting directly into the ground, you can also grow hydrangeas in pots — a great solution for small gardens or patios. Plant your new hydrangeas last thing in the evening and water the new plants well once in to ensure they don't suffer in the next day's heat too badly if you're planting outside of traditional planting season.

Follow these steps below correctly and you can ensure your hydrangeas can bloom every year.

1. Choose the right location

Planting hydrangeas all starts with that classic rule — location, location, location. Knowing where to plant hydrangeas is an essential first step before you get started. Your hydrangeas may not bloom if planted somewhere without the needed light, soil, and water requirements.

"When it comes to hydrangeas, location is everything. These plants thrive with morning sun and afternoon shade. They need about 4-6 hours of sunlight each day, but too much direct afternoon sun can burn their leaves. So, find a spot where they get a bit of a reprieve in the hottest part of the day," says David Miller, CEO of Austin Tree Services.

2. Prepare the soil

Once your spot is picked out, it's time to prepare the soil you'll be using for the hydrangeas. The environmental factors of the soil are important because the pH balance can actually change the color of your hydrangeas.

"Any well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter will work fine. Hydrangeas prefer their soil slightly acidic, about pH 5.5-6.5. In case your soil is alkaline, add peat moss or compost to achieve the correct pH. Plant in a mix that incorporates compost or aged manure. This will enrich the soil with much-needed plant nutrients," says Matthew Wilson, gardening expert and CEO of handygardeners.com.

Try mixing in this organic compost available on Amazon, made with 100% dairy cow manure. With 4.6 stars and over 200 ratings, it's well-loved by shoppers. One reviewer says, "Used it on my indoor and outdoor plants and could see an immediate improvement."

3. Dig a hole

Now it's time to get planting. To ensure your hydrangeas won't start dropping, dig a hole the right size for your plant. "Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball of your hydrangea. This gives the roots plenty of room to spread their wings. Loosen the soil at the bottom of the hole to help the roots establish more easily," says David. 

4. Plant the hydrangeas

Now you're ready to plant the hydrangea into the hole in the ground or pot. "Place it in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the base of the plant. Give it a good drink to settle the soil and get rid of any air pockets," says David.

It's important to note hydrangeas can be toxic to dogs and other pets, so take care if you have pets around the house.

5. Water

Once your hydrangea is safe and sound in the soil, you'll need to give it a good soak and maintain a watering schedule throughout the season. "Hydrangeas require frequent watering, especially during dry periods. At the time of planting, water sufficiently to settle the soil around the roots. In years to come, deliver about 1 inch of water per week, considering both rainfall and evapotranspiration," says Matthew.

Hydrangea planting essentials

You're going to need a few supplies to successfully plant your hydrangeas. See our top-rated picks to use in your garden, all loved by shoppers with over 4 stars and hundreds of ratings.

Prices were correct at the time of publishing.

It's important to avoid making any landscaping mistakes so you don't damage your plants in the garden. "Too much direct sunlight can cause leaf scorch, so ensure your hydrangeas get some afternoon shade. Hydrangeas don’t like wet feet. Make sure your soil drains well to prevent root rot. Pruning at the wrong time can throw a wrench in the works, reducing blooms. Know your hydrangea type and prune accordingly," says David. 

Knowing ways to keep pests out of your backyard is essential for enjoying your outdoor space and protecting your plants.

From pest-repelling flowers to fencing, our industry experts reveal seven ingenious steps to a pest-free garden. Our seven brilliant methods, products and pro tips will help you avoid those all the creepy crawlies, flying insects and small critters that would otherwise give you the major ick whenever you step outside.

Just as with keeping pests out of your home, a few carefully-conducted steps could be all that stands between you and the enjoyable yard of your dreams. 

1. Yard maintenance

Preventing pest infestations begins with maintaining your yard.

Bryan Clayton, chief executive officer of GreenPal, says, "Keeping your yard clean and tidy is critical when it comes to deterring unwanted intruders. Regular mowing, removing standing water, and decluttering can drastically reduce pest populations. Tall grass and debris are breeding grounds for pests like ticks and mosquitoes."

Store firewood and compost piles away from your home and garden to reduce the risk of pests migrating into your yard. Clean up fallen leaves, branches, and other debris, as these can provide shelter for insects and rodents.

Bryan adds, "By maintaining a well-groomed yard, you eliminate many of the hiding spots and breeding sites for these critters."

2. Natural predators

Encouraging natural predators is a sustainable and eco-friendly way to control pest populations. Birds, frogs, lizards, and beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings can help reduce pests such as aphids, caterpillars, and mosquitoes. 

Bryan Clayton says, "Introducing natural predators into your yard is one of the most effective and environmentally friendly ways to manage pests. 

"For instance, installing a bat house helps control mosquito and moth populations since a single bat can eat thousands of insects each night. Similarly, attracting birds can help reduce the number of crawling insects like ants and ticks."

Create a welcoming environment for these predators by planting native vegetation, providing water sources like birdbaths, and avoiding the use of broad-spectrum pesticides that can harm them.

3. Diatomaceous earth

Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a non-toxic, natural substance made from the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms called diatoms. It works by dehydrating pests such as ants, slugs, and fleas. 

Bryan says, "Sprinkle this fine powder around your yard, especially near foundations and garden beds. DE works mechanically, not chemically, causing insects like ants, roaches, and fleas to dry out and die by absorbing the oils and fats from their cuticles. It's effective, natural, and safe for use around pets and children."

We recommend the PF Harris Diatomaceous Earth from Walmart has no fillers or additives, which means it meets organic-use standards.

While DE is safe for humans and pets, take care to avoid inhaling the fine dust during application. Be sure to reapply after rain or watering, as DE loses its effectiveness when wet.

4. Natural repellents

Natural repellents can be an effective way to deter pests without harming the environment. Garlic, neem oil, and essential oils such as peppermint, eucalyptus, and citronella can repel a variety of pests. 

Bryan recommends Soil Sunrise Natural Cedar Mulch from Target. He says, "Not only does cedar mulch help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds, but its natural oils also repel many types of insects including ticks and fleas. It’s a great choice for garden paths and around the foundation of your home."

Neem oil — such as the Natria Neem Oil, also from Amazon — is another popular deterrent for pests. James Heartquist, homes expert at Modern Property Solutions, says, "This ready-to-use neem oil spray is organic disease control at its best — a convenient and effective way to tackle pests like aphids and mites without resorting to harsh chemicals. The fact that it's ready-to-use means there's no mixing required, which saves time and ensures the correct concentration is always applied."

Peppermint oil — such as the Essentially KateS Store Peppermint Oil from Amazon — is another popular natural backyard deterrent. James says, "This particular peppermint oil is 100% pure and comes with a detailed user's guide and glass dropper. Peppermint oil is highly effective against ants, spiders, and even rodents due to its strong scent that pests find overwhelming."

Citronella oil torches or candles — such as the Charlton Home Citronella Candles from Wayfair — are great for dealing with mosquitos. Bryan also recommends the Summit Store Mosquito Dunks from Amazon.

He says, "Throw these doughnut-shaped products into standing water and they release a bacterium toxic to mosquito larvae but harmless to other wildlife. It’s perfect for preventing mosquitoes from taking over rain barrels or birdbaths."

Additionally, planting pest-repellent herbs like basil, mint, and rosemary can help keep insects at bay while adding beauty and fragrance to your garden. Just be careful with mint as it is fast-growing and invasive. We recommend growing it in a pot so you can control the spread.

5. Synthetic repellents

When natural methods are not enough, synthetic repellents can provide an additional layer of protection against pests. 

Products containing DEET, permethrin, or picaridin can be effective against mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects. Apply these repellents according to the manufacturer's instructions, focusing on areas where pests are most active. 

Tommy Mello, founder of A1 Garage Door Service, says that three products stand out from the crowd when it comes to backyard pest-repelling.

He says, "Firstly, the Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer is particularly effective against ants, spiders, fleas, and ticks. To apply, use a lawn spreader to evenly distribute the granules over your yard, then water the area lightly to activate the ingredients. The granules create a protective barrier that kills insects on contact and continues to repel them for up to three months."

Tommy also recommends Critter Ridder Motion-Activated Repellent and Sprinkler as highly effective against raccoons, squirrels, skunks and deer.

He says, "The granules contain a blend of ingredients that irritate animals' sense of smell and taste, deterring them from treated areas. For best results, create a continuous barrier with the granules, reapply after heavy rain to maintain effectiveness, and use alongside other deterrents like fencing or netting."

Finally, Tommy loves the Thermacell Patio Shield Mosquito Repeller, which comes in a range of appealing colors and at an affordable price. He adds, "This clever device creates a 15-foot zone of protection against mosquitoes, releasing a synthetic version of a natural insect repellent found in chrysanthemum flowers."

Be cautious when using synthetic repellents around children, pets, and edible plants, and always opt for the least toxic option available.

6. Flowers

Certain flowers can naturally deter pests while enhancing the beauty of your yard. A double win! Nasturtiums can deter aphids who may well invade your carefully grown vegetable garden (our content editor Eve Smallman tackled aphids successfully with dish soap), beetles, and whiteflies, while chrysanthemums contain pyrethrum, a natural insecticide that repels a wide range of insects.

Marigolds, meanwhile, release a scent that repels mosquitoes, aphids, and nematodes.

Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO of Lawn Love, explains, "When it comes to pest-repelling flowers, my favorite are marigolds. They're a great, all-natural solution that adds color to your garden. Their particular scent helps repel anything from wasps, to aphids, to moles! And, at the same time, they are attractive to good pollinators like bees and butterflies, so they can help your garden thrive."

Planting these flowers around the perimeter of your garden or interspersed with other plants can create a colorful, pest-resistant natural barrier.

7. Physical barriers

Fencing or netting can be an effective physical barrier to keep larger pests like deer, rabbits, and raccoons out of your yard. 

Choose a fence or net that is appropriate for the type of pest you are dealing with. For instance, a tall, sturdy fence can deter deer, while a buried mesh fence can prevent burrowing animals like rabbits. 

Tommy says, "These barriers create a physical obstruction that pests cannot easily bypass. For instance, a fence with a buried bottom edge will prevent animals like raccoons and squirrels from digging underneath. The fence should be at least four feet high and buried at least six inches underground to ensure effectiveness. 

"Netting is another excellent option for protecting specific areas like vegetable gardens. It should be secured tightly around garden beds and checked regularly for holes or gaps. 

"By physically blocking access, these barriers are highly effective against raccoons, squirrels, and deer. Regularly inspect the barriers for any damage or gaps that pests could exploit, ensuring that gates and other entry points are securely closed."

The YARDGARD Black Deer Netting from Wayfair is seven feet tall and blocks larger animal intruders getting into your garden. Tommy adds, "Combining physical barriers with other deterrents, such as repellents, can provide comprehensive protection."

Meet our experts

So there you have it — seven ingenious ways to keep pests out of your backyard. Combining natural and synthetic repellents with proper yard maintenance and physical barriers will help create a multi-layered defense against unwanted pests.

Next, check out these nine backyard privacy mistakes to avoid. 

When I spotted little black dots on top of my spring onions, my heart sank. What if they'd grown something awful? But then, I peered closely at them and quickly realized I had aphids on my vegetable crops.

Instead of panicking, I researched effective methods for removing aphids from my backyard and quickly found that it was a low-effort task for my small infestation. I shelved my squeamishness, rolled up my sleeves, and got to work spritzing dish soap, wiping them away with kitchen towel, and re-potting my springy plants.

If you've learned how to identify pests and have found you too have aphids, I've got you covered with everything I learned, as well as tips from gardening pros.

5 ways to get rid of a vegetable crop aphid infestation

When growing vegetables in my small backyard, I was surprised to find aphids making themselves at home. I hadn't heard of them before and went about doing my homework.

“Aphids (Aphidoidea) are small parasitic insects of different colors that may be wingless or winged,” explains Anastasia Borisevich, plant expert at Plantum.

“These pests feed on the juice of young shoots and secrete a sugary liquid known as honeydew,” she adds.

Anastasia explains they can spread plant viruses, cause galls, and attract ants thanks to the honeydew.

“They are likely the culprits responsible for your plants getting stunted and shriveled, turning yellow, and curling their leaves,” she says.

If this all sounds familiar to you, this advice will come in useful. Where the pros and I have suggested and used particular products, I have rounded up highly-rated picks from trusted retailers to help you start tackling your problem.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

1. Spritz on a mix of dish soap and water

Mixing together dish soap and water was the method that I used to wave goodbye to aphids in my backyard, which I could do as my infestation was thankfully small.

“Deal with aphids by washing them off the plant with a massive flow of water, before treating the plant with aphids with a soapy water spray,” Anastasia suggests. “Take a soft cloth dipped in a detergent, shampoo, or soap solution, then gently pinch the aphids off."

I did this with just plain kitchen towel, but you could use a microfiber cloth, such as the Great Value Microfiber Cleaning Towels from Walmart which are bestsellers and are washable.

From here, simply repeat the procedure several times until all pests disappear. I did this over the course of a couple of days and eventually got rid of aphids on my vegetable crops.

2. Replace the soil and replant

I used the first method to initially remove aphids, but after speaking with the pros, I’ve now switched up the soil in my spring onion plants.

“Aphid larvae live both on the surface of the plant and in the soil, so replanting and soil replacement is key,” says Anastasia.  “Wash the roots with a weak solution of potassium permanganate, then wash the flower pot with soap and treat it with copper sulfate."

I don’t have any potassium permanganate, but I’ve now ordered Potassium Permanganate Crystal Reagent Grade from Amazon, after reading shopper reviews saying it’s great quality and is ultra-versatile.

3. Invite in ladybugs

When fighting off pest infestations, you can also consider natural options that are safe for the environment, rather than just getting rid of aphids quickly as I did.

Anastasia explains, “You could also purchase ladybugs or construct shelters like a ladybug house to fight off aphids.”

She says the seven-spotted ladybug (Coccinella septempunctata L.) is commonly used for pest control, but there are other predatory species you can use as well. 

“An average ladybug larva eats 70 aphids a day, consuming about a thousand before it becomes an adult insect,” Anastasia adds. You can order ladybugs online.

I also love the idea of bringing an insect hotel into the backyard to facilitate this. You can either build this yourself with twigs, bricks, and logs or grab one pre-built such as the Lulu Home Wooden Insect House from Amazon that’s made of premium materials and is waterproof. 

4. Maintain your backyard properly

Whether you’ve added vegetable gardens as small backyard ideas like I have or are dealing with a bigger space, good outdoor maintenance is important for getting rid of aphids.

“Ensure you have good garden hygiene like clearing weeds and debris where aphids can hide,” explains Sal Musto, gardening and landscaping expert at SalCorp.

He also suggests fertilizing your plants to keep them healthy, as stressed plants are more susceptible to infestation.

One of my favorite gardening brands is Miracle-Gro, and the Miracle-Gro Shake 'N Feed All Purpose Plant Food from Amazon will help your crops grow bigger and healthier.

5. Remove and treat the leaves

“If your leaves get deformed and sticky or covered with a white coating, it’s a sign of a severe aphid infestation,” Anastasia says. 

In this case, make sure to remove the affected leaves and destroy them by burning them. Anastasia also recommends in this case spraying the plant with insecticides, like the Natria Insecticidal Soap Insect Killer from Amazon that can be used on fruit and vegetables.

I’m grateful that my aphid vegetable garden infestation hasn’t got to this point, but if it does, I’ll update this article and let you know.

To prevent the aphids from coming back, Sal says to continue to monitor your plants and treat any flare-ups quickly. 

“The key is to break the reproduction cycle of the aphids before populations explode. With diligent management, you can get rid of aphids and enjoy an aphid-free backyard,” he finishes by saying.

If aphids aren’t the only pests bugging you in your backyard, learning how to repel ticks will help you lounge outside worry-free.

When I was younger, I used to think we had fairies at the bottom of the yard and wished I could join them. I'm excited that I can finally live out my fantasy in real life, as fairytale gardens are everywhere at the moment and I don't see them going anywhere.

If you like the idea of a magical outdoor space feel magical as much as I do, you'll love these ideas from design and gardening experts. Winding pathways, twinkling lights, and fabulous floral arrangements are just a few of their top tips.

For those looking for backyard ideas that are beautiful and whimsical, these will whisk you away to another world.

Fabulous fairytale garden ideas

No matter if you're working with a fairy-sized space and are searching for small backyard ideas or are decorating a bigger space, these will work for all different sizes.

The experts have suggested specific decor throughout, so I've curated highly-rated picks from trusted retailers wherever possible.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

1. Use soft outdoor lighting

Create a dreamy atmosphere in your fairytale garden by bringing in outdoor lighting ideas.

“Use string lights, lanterns, and solar-powered garden lights to illuminate the garden at night,” suggests Tony O’Neill, gardening expert at Simplify Gardening.

“Soft, warm lighting can create a magical ambiance and highlight key features,” he adds.

Tony suggests draping LED string lights over trees, bushes, and pergolas to create a twinkling effect throughout your space.

For example, the JMEXSUSS String Lights from Amazon have over 9,000 five-star reviews, are waterproof, and come in 17 colorful styles.

2. Create winding paths

Having clear paths is key for adding structure to carefree backyard spaces like ones with fairytale themes.

“One of my favorite concepts is incorporating natural stone paths that meander through lush greenery and flowers,” says Bob Berriz, designer at Berriz Design.

“For a whimsical touch, we often use glow stones or pavers to create illuminated pathways at night,” he adds.

I think the Oubest Glow in The Dark Rocks from Amazon are pretty and budget-friendly. Plus, the soft lighting will create an enchanted feel that’s fit for a fairytale.

3. Add surprise fairy features

I love the thought of creating surprises for guests in my backyard, and this fairytale garden idea is a fun way to do just that. 

Tony suggests, “Incorporate miniature fairy houses, toadstools, and other whimsical decorations throughout the garden.” 

Try hiding these among plants or place them in open areas. You could do by adding a fairy door to your trees, either by DIYing your own or by grabbing a cute one like the Dmyifan Resin Fairy Door from Amazon that glows in the dark.

4. Plant bright and bold flowers

It just wouldn’t be a fairytale garden without flowers. These will add color and texture, as well as enhance the fragrance of your outdoor space.

“I also suggest grouping plants with distinct shapes and colors, like foxgloves, hollyhocks, and hydrangeas,” says Bob.

“Placing them in clusters will guide visitors on an adventure through your backyard space,” he says.

Learning how to take care of hydrangeas is easy, and you can simply start growing these with potted shrubs like the Endless Summer Hydrangea from Walmart that can be grown in USDA zones four to nine.

5. Bring in beautiful structures

Step your fairytale garden by adding stunning structures that can serve as beautiful entryways or focal points in the space.

“Create flower arches or pergola ideas draped with climbing plants like clematis, honeysuckle, or roses,” Tony explains.

For those who like this idea but live in a small space like me, I’m currently growing wisteria in a trellis planter similar to the Arlmont & Co Wooden Planter from Wayfair which is made from natural materials and has a drainage system.

6. Sneak in a hidden garden nook

Turn your backyard space into a sanctuary by creating a calming spot to nestle into a book, enjoy your morning coffee, or simply relax.

“Design hidden seating areas or reading nooks surrounded by tall plants and climbing vines,” Tony says. “A cozy bench or swing nestled among fragrant roses or wisteria can provide a perfect escape.”

He suggests searching the best outdoor furniture brands for pieces with vintage designs to enhance the fairytale atmosphere. 

I often spend hours looking through Amazon furniture and recently spotted the Belleze Outdoor Bench from Amazon that has a vintage-style rose design and is made from sturdy aluminum. 

7. Finish with wonderful water features

As well as choosing lovely lighting, hardscaped water features such as ponds, fountains, and wishing wells, can add character to your fairytale garden in more than one way.

“The sound of trickling water combined with lighting creates an ambiance for an enchanted night in the garden,” Bob says.

Tony suggests adding lily pads, water lilies, and floating candles (the Mainstays Floating Candles from Walmart come with a remote) in order to build on the magical feel.

Even just harnessing a couple of these fairytale ideas will make your backyard feel completely different. 

“With the right plants, paths, and lighting, an outdoor space can whisk people away to a fantasy world,” Bob finishes by saying.

If you love this aesthetic and want to carry on bringing it into your home, learning about fairycore is a great idea.

You don't need to worry just yet if you're peering into your backyard and can't see your hydrangea blooming.

I've asked gardening experts why it might be failing, and they all agree there are five possible problems. From poor sunlight to weak watering, they're all easy mistakes to make — but are thankfully quick to fix. 

If you're taking care of hydrangeas and can't see any colorful petals or flower heads, it's time to take some action to salvage the season's lost blooms.

The five reasons why hydrangea is not blooming in your backyard

Whether you're wondering why your hydrangeas are drooping or if they just aren't producing flowers, these tips will help you sort the problem out.

My gardening experts have recommended useful buys throughout, which I've curated from trusted retailers, as well as putting together a hydrangea care essentials to help you fix any issues.

The prices below were correct at the time of publication. 

1. Not enough sunlight

Typically, the number one reason hydrangeas don't bloom is not enough sunlight. 

“Hydrangeas require at least 6 hours of direct sun to produce flowers,” says Bob Berriz, gardening and landscaping expert at Berriz Design.

He suggests finding a spot with increased light exposure, ideally one with morning sun and afternoon shade.

2. Improper watering

I know it can be tempting to give TLC to your hydrangea, but both over watering and under watering can stress hydrangeas and prevent blooming.

“Hydrangeas need consistent moisture but well-drained soil,” explains Tony O’Neill, gardening expert at Simplify Gardening.

Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on rainfall, and ensure the soil drains well. I recommend finding a colorful watering can, as I find having this makes it easier to spot in the backyard, and serves as a visual reminder to pick up, and water.  

The Pioneer Woman Folk Geo Metal Watering Can from Walmart has a boho pattern and can be used indoors and outdoors, for example. You can also use a soil meter to check whether a plant needs watering or not, such as the Amazon number one bestselling XLUX Soil Moisture Meter.

3. Poor nutrients

Just like you and me, plants need the right nutrients to thrive, and a lack of these can may be why your hydrangea is not blooming.

“Fertilize your hydrangeas with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring,” Tony suggests. He advises giving high-nitrogen fertilizers a miss, as they promote leaf growth over blooms.

This is why it’s a good idea to choose ones that are flower-specific, such as the Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Bloom Booster from Amazon which gets to work quickly and is safe to use on annuals and perennials.

4. Pests

If you’ve learned how to identify pests and have spotted these in your yard, this could be affecting your hydrangeas and stopping them from reaching their full potential.

“Pests like spider mites, aphids, and Japanese beetles can damage new growth and buds,” says Joe Gerrior, gardening and landscaping expert at Gerrior Masonry & Landscape. “Treating the infestation early will prevent damage to buds and new growth.”

I’ve been dealing with aphids while growing vegetables in my backyard and I recommend putting dish soap and water in a spray bottle, spritzing the area, and wiping them away with kitchen towel. It's been brilliantly effective on my veg patch.

5. Incorrect pruning

Learning when to prune hydrangeas is an important part of making sure they thrive

“Pruning at the wrong time of year can remove the flower buds that develop on old wood,” Tony says. “For bigleaf and oakleaf hydrangeas, prune right after they bloom in the summer, while for panicle and smooth hydrangeas, prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.”

Tony adds that pruning surrounding trees and shrubs can also allow more light to reach the plant. Whenever you need to prune, make sure to use sharp pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant, and give them a clean to avoid introducing microbes or fungus to the delicate freshly-cut area.

I like the look of the Gonicc Professional Premium Titanium Bypass Pruning Shears from Amazon, which have over 20,000 five-star reviews from shoppers who rate the ease of use and quality material and have come highly recommended by many of our gardening writers and experts at Real Homes.

Hydrangea care essentials

Listening to expert-approved advice and tackling why your hydrangea isn’t growing flowers will ensure you see pretty petals soon enough.

“Following these tips has helped many of my clients get their hydrangeas blooming beautifully again,” Joe finishes by saying.

Once you’ve solved this problem, you can start getting creative with this plant by learning how to change the color of hydrangeas.

I've been growing vegetables in a small backyard and I'm absolutely loving it. It has added greenery to my space and gives me a mindful activity to do every day.

That being said, this is the first time I've ever attempted this, so after making a few mistakes, I sought out tips from gardening pros about what I should be planting, what to grow them in, how to space them, and their top maintenance tips for a bountiful harvest. As a result, my veggies are thriving.

If you're planting vegetables in your backyard and have a small outdoor space like me, this expert advice will help you grow them well despite the limited capacity.

Pro tips I'm using when growing vegetables in a small backyard

From practical start-up advice to gardening jobs you can do month-by-month, our pros have spilled plenty of practical advice that I've scooped up and am applying to my small vegetable patch. My gardening experts have recommended handy buys, so I've rounded up a few vital purchases in my vegetable gardening essentials list.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

1. Choose the right vegetables

Choosing the right vegetables to start growing in your small backyard is a key part of successfully producing tasty results.

“For small backyards, opt for compact or dwarf varieties that thrive in limited spaces,” suggests Tony O’Neill, gardening expert and owner of Simplify Gardening.

“Some excellent choices include cherry tomatoes, bush beans, radishes, lettuce, and herbs like basil and parsley,” he continues. “These plants are not only space-efficient but also high-yielding.”

I currently have radishes in my backyard which have been growing well, but I’m now inspired to build my salad ingredients, so I’m taking the plunge with the Sereniseed Certified Organic Leafy Greens Lettuce Seeds from Amazon as they’re GMO-free and come in 10 varieties.

2. Plant in raised beds

I’m going to be honest — I got myself into a pickle when I first started growing vegetables in my small backyard. I originally used a tiny vertical planter and soon found myself having to redistribute all my vegetables to larger ones.

Steve Schumacher, gardening expert and owner of Boston Landscape Co., says, "I always recommend raised beds for small spaces, as they concentrate the soil and make maintenance much easier."

He suggests aiming for beds two to three feet high and three to four feet wide, such as the Arlmont and Co Sauli Metal Garden Bed from Wayfair that’s also UV and weather-resistant making it a good one to reuse year in, year out.

“This provides enough depth for most vegetable roots but still allows you to reach the center of the bed,” he adds.

Steve isn't the only pro who loves these — Martha Stewart has top tips for growing vegetables in raised beds, too. 

3. Position the plants and planters correctly

Alongside my radishes, I've been growing spring onions, and carrots in my small backyard, and for all of these, I quickly found out I’d planted way too many seeds in my small pots and needed to be more sparing. 

“Give each plant room to grow — proper spacing means fewer disease issues and better air circulation,” Steve says.

He typically recommends 18-24 inches between tomato plants and 6-12 inches between lettuce and cucumber plants.  

Along with this, it’s a good idea to pay attention to sunlight, being sure to place beds in a spot with at least six hours of direct sun per day to help them thrive.

4. Plant in quality soil

I’ve used two kinds of soil when growing vegetables in my small backyard — one from a trusted brand and one from a budget supermarket which I bought on a whim and I've really seen a difference.

“Use high-quality potting soil enriched with compost to ensure your vegetables receive the necessary nutrients,” says Tony.

I absolutely recommend investing a couple of extra dollars in the right one, as I’ve found the vegetables I have been growing in higher-quality soil are fairing much better, with a quicker rate of growth and larger yields. 

Since I've started using the Miracle-Gro Potting Mix from Amazon, it has added so much color to my crops and to the outdoor flowers I’ve been growing in my small backyard. I'll never opt for the cheapest again.

From here, Tony recommends topping up the soil with organic matter to maintain fertility. I’m learning how to make compost so I can keep feeding my veggies with nutrients.

5. Make sure to stay on top of watering

One of my favorite parts of the day at the moment is heading outside, catching rays, and watering my burgeoning plants. Don't lose momentum when you're growing vegetables at home. A few missed waterings and your veg will suffer, especially during heatwaves.

“Lack of water is the number one cause of reduced yields,” Steve says. “An inch of water per week is a good target for most vegetable gardens.”

Look for one made from a sturdy material — I have a metal one similar to the Gardener’s Supply Company Copper Watering Can from Amazon, which has an elegant design and a spacious three-quart capacity.

He also advises watering the garden thoroughly, especially in hot or dry weather. If you do not feel confident in assessing when your lot needs watering, grab a soil meter. It's analogue, meaning no need for batteries, and you can stick it into the soil and it'll tell you how the moisture is looking and whether you need to water. 

Real Homes editor Punteha van Terheyden swears by the cheap VIVOSUN Soil Tester from Amazon. "Since I started using this last year, I have not killed a single plant indoors or out, and all mine are thriving and lush. I had a habit of over or underwatering them, causing their leaves to yellow or drop, but now they're a very happy bunch.

"The best thing is once you've used it for a couple of months, you get the measure of your plants and fair much better at intuitively knowing when to water, or withhold."

Vegetable gardening essentials

With the right approach, a small backyard can produce a surprising vegetable harvest.

“The keys are choosing crops suited to your space, maintaining healthy soil and plants, and keeping on top of common issues like pests or disease,” Steve finishes by saying.

For those with even smaller spaces, learning how to garden on a balcony specifically may be more useful instead.

Knowing how to make hummingbird food is key if you want to welcome these wonderful creatures to your home and give them exactly the nutrition they need.

Our expert guide reveals the five simple steps to creating your own hummingbird food. With a wing speed of up to 70 beats per second — faster than any other bird — they're sure to be hungry when they drop by.

Like most happy dinner guests, when it comes to attracting hummingbirds to your backyard, it begins with serving up the right food. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can provide a safe food source for your flighty feathered visitors.

Five steps to making perfect hummingbird food 

Whether you're looking to welcome hummingbirds to your balcony or backyard, our expert guide to making homemade hummingbird food will work nicely in each. Just make sure you avoid hummingbird feeder mistakes whilst you're at it!

As well as walking you through the simple steps, our expert guide includes top tips, what to avoid and a detailed Q&A section to cover all your queries. 

Where products have been recommended, we've sourced high-quality items from reliable retailers — so you can be sure you're getting bang for your buck.

Prices correct at time of publication.

Step 1: Gather your ingredients

To make hummingbird food, you'll need two simple ingredients only — granulated white sugar and water.

Cyrille Adjalala, founder of Bird Watchers Hub, says, "Sometimes people assume it can't be that simple, but it really is. But don't use honey, artificial sweeteners, or food coloring — these can actually harm hummingbirds."

It’s important to use only granulated white sugar because it closely mimics the natural sucrose found in flower nectar. Other types of sugar or sweeteners can introduce harmful substances to the birds, causing health issues or even death.

This Great Value Pure Granulated White Sugar from Walmart is gluten-free, kosher and well-reviewed.

Step 2: Measure

The ideal ratio for hummingbird food is one part sugar to four parts water. This ratio closely resembles the natural sugar concentration found in the nectar of flowers that hummingbirds feed on. 

To prepare, simply measure out one cup of granulated white sugar, then four cups of water. Using precise measurements ensures that the mixture is neither too strong nor too weak, providing the perfect energy boost for hummingbirds. 

Too much sugar can be harmful, while too little won’t provide adequate nutrition. Don't mix them yet.

Step 3: Boil the mixture

Boiling the water and sugar mixture helps to dissolve the sugar and kills any potential bacteria or mold spores. 

Begin by pouring the four cups of water into a pot and bring it to a boil. Next, add the one cup of sugar to the boiling water. Finally, stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.

Cyrille says, "Boiling the mixture is a crucial step because it ensures that the solution is safe for the hummingbirds. Even if the water supply is clean, boiling eliminates any possible contaminants, providing a healthier option for the birds."

This Faberware Reliance Non-Stick Saucepan from Target is small, light, non-stick and ideal for boiling hummingbird food mixture. If you're in a rush or looking to pre-boil your water, this Peach Street Store Speed-Boil Kettle from Amazon boasts a 3-minute boil time and has a cool-touch handle.

Step 4: Cool and store

After the sugar has completely dissolved, remove the pot from the heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature. Once cooled, pour the mixture into a clean container and store it in the refrigerator if not using immediately.

Cooling the mixture properly before storing it prevents the growth of bacteria and mold. Storing the sugar water in the refrigerator helps maintain its freshness and prolongs its usability. 

5. Fill your feeder

Before filling your feeder with your hummingbird nectar recipe, make sure it's clean. 

Cyrille says. "When you’re ready to use the hummingbird food, always make sure the feeder is clean to prevent contamination from previous batches. Old or dirty feeders can harbor bacteria and mold, which can be harmful to hummingbirds.

"Clean your feeder regularly with hot water and vinegar (avoid soap). I recommend doing this at least twice a week to prevent mold and bacterial growth."

You can check out our guide to the best bird feeders, or see our suggested products below. Cyrille recommends this Perky-Pet Store Hummingbird Feeder from Amazon. He says, "This feeder is easy to clean, has multiple feeding ports, and includes a built-in ant moat to keep pests away."

With your clean feeder at the ready, it's finally time to fill it with the sugar water mixture, place it outside and wait for your fluttering friends to arrive.

Cyrille adds, "Look for a shady spot as this prevents — or at least slows down — fermentation, ensuring the hummingbirds get fresh, nutritious food."

Meet our expert

FAQs

Can I add honey?

No, you should not add honey to hummingbird food. Honey is not a suitable substitute for sugar as it can promote the growth of harmful bacteria and mold that can be fatal to hummingbirds. Stick to granulated white sugar and water.

Should I use red dye?

It's not necessary to use red dye in your hummingbird food. In fact, it can be harmful. Some commercial hummingbird foods contain red dye as the birds are attracted to the color, but we do not recommended this. 

Hummingbirds are naturally attracted to the color red, so using a feeder with red parts is sufficient to attract them without the need for dye in the food.

How long does homemade hummingbird food keep?

Homemade hummingbird food can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. However, once it's in the feeder, it should be changed every three to five days, or more frequently in hot weather, to prevent fermentation and mold growth. Always clean the feeder thoroughly before refilling it.

Can I put my hummingbird feeder near a regular bird feeder?

It is generally not advisable to place a hummingbird feeder near a regular bird feeder. Larger birds can be aggressive and territorial, which might discourage hummingbirds from visiting. To ensure the safety and comfort of hummingbirds, place their feeder in a quiet, sheltered area away from other feeders.

What should I do if ants find my feeder?

Ants can be a common problem with hummingbird feeders. To deter ants from piling into your hummingbird feeder, you can use ant moats or traps, which are water-filled barriers that prevent ants from reaching the feeder. 

These can be purchased or made at home. Also, ensure that the feeder is cleaned regularly to remove any sugar residue that might attract ants.

So there you have it — how to make hummingbird food in five simple steps. Making hummingbird nectar at home is easy, cost-effective, and ensures the food is safe and healthy for these tiny birds. Sit back and enjoy the delightful presence of hummingbirds and the vibrant energy they bring to your outdoor space.

Next, check out how to build a pond to attract wildlife.

Getting your hands on plants that repel pests outdoors will allow you to maintain a beautiful backyard space that's bug-free with less chemicals and effort.

I'm gardening in my backyard at the moment and in need of pest tips myself, I asked the pros about the plants they recommend using to scare away any unwanted visitors. Aromatic herbs and flowers such as mint, rosemary, lavender and marigolds are their top picks.

If you've got creepy crawlies in your yard and already learned how to identify pests, I've got you covered with plenty of useful plants to help you repel these bugs.

Pretty and practical plants that repel pests outdoors

Whether you're trying to remove ants from your backyard or are dealing with bigger bugs, these plants are all sure bets for warding them away.

As well as asking gardening and pest control experts for advice, I've also rounded up useful highly-rated picks from trusted retailers throughout including putting together a pest repellent essentials kit.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

1. Marigolds

These have to be the most cheerful plants out there, with their sunshine colors and bountiful blooms. As a bonus, they’re great plants for repelling pests.

“Marigolds produce a scent that repels mosquitoes, aphids, and even nematodes in the soil,” explains Tony O’Neill, gardening expert and founder of Simplify Gardening. “Their vibrant flowers also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs, which prey on garden pests."

Tony says to plant them in full sun and using well-draining soil, such as the Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Potting Mix from Amazon which provides feed for up to six months whilst protecting against over and under-watering.

2. Lavender

I absolutely love lavender and I have it in my garden anyway, so I’m pleased that it’s one of the best plants to repel bugs. Bye, bye, nasties!

Tony explains, “Lavender's strong fragrance is effective at deterring mosquitoes, flies, and moths. It's also known for its calming properties and can add a pleasant aroma to your garden.”

You can get pots of it pre-grown, boosting your chances of gardening success. The Premier Plant Solutions Store Lavender from Amazon is the site’s overall pick (it's clever algorithm looks at similar items, assesses reviews, star ratings and popularity before giving it this label) and grows in hardiness zones 5-7.

Make sure to water it sparingly, as it’s drought-tolerant once established. “Then, make sure to prune back in the spring to encourage new growth and maintain shape,” Tony says.

3. Basil

I’ve just started growing basil on my kitchen windowsill, but I’m now convinced that I need to move it outside as it's a good plant for repelling pests, it turns out.

“Basil not only enhances your culinary dishes but also repels flies and mosquitoes,” explains Dalya Harel, pest control expert and founder of Lice Busters. “I think it's best to plant basil in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight."

I have adopted a basil plant from the store and started to grow it. You can do this too, with the Fresh Produce Shenandoah Basil Plant from Walmart which is organic and GMO-free.

She advises pinching off the flowers as they appear to keep the leaves flavorful and aromatic. You can do this while grabbing leaves for your pasta or pizza dishes — Bellissimo!

4. Mint

This fresh herb isn’t just great for putting in cool drinks — it also works brilliantly as a pest-repellent plant, too.

“Mint is a great pest deterrent, especially for ants and mosquitoes,” Dalya says. “I recommend regularly harvesting it, as this prevents the plant from becoming leggy and promotes a bushier growth.”

He notes that it can be invasive, so he advises planting it in pots to control its spread. I have the Better Homes & Gardens Pottery Amy Ceramic Planter from Walmart in my basket, thanks to its fun pattern and handy drainage plug.

5. Chrysanthemums

Also known as ‘mom’ flowers, these pretty flowers will add color to your backyard ideas.

"Chrysanthemums contain pyrethrum, which is a natural insect repellent that can deter cockroaches, ants, ticks, fleas, and more," Tony explains. Many commercial repellents use a synthetic version of this chemical in their insecticides as pyrethrum is so effective.

Simply place your chrysanthemums in full sun to partial shade, water regularly, and deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.

6. Lemongrass

Zingy and zesty, lemongrass is not just a super home fragrance scent, but is also a super aromatic plant that repels pests.

Tony explains, “Lemongrass contains citronella, which is well-known for repelling mosquitoes. This makes it a great plant to place near an outdoor seating area, so you can dine al fresco without swatting away pests."

If you like this idea but don’t want to plant anything, you could always choose one of the best candles with a citronella scent, as this has lemongrass in it.

For example, I love the look of the Diptyque Citronnelle Lemongrass & Orange Blossom Scented Candle from Nordstrom. Celebs like Kate Moss and Kim Kardashian love this brand and this candle has a vibrant pattern that will add to your outdoor decor.

7. Rosemary

Just like basil, rosemary is a herb worth having in your backyard for many different purposes. 

Tony says, “Rosemary's strong scent can deter mosquitoes, flies, and cabbage moths. It’s also a hardy herb that can be used in cooking.”

Start with a small plant like the American Plant Exchange Live Tuscan Blue Rosemary Plant from Amazon, and nurture it so it becomes a larger plant.

Just be sure not to water it too often and make sure you prune it regularly to help it maintain shape and encourage new growth.

Pest repellent essentials kit

By using these plants that repel pests outdoors, you can keep your backyard looking gorgeous and free from gross, unhelpful bugs.

“In my own gardening area, I've had great success with using marigolds and basil to deter pests naturally, making it a more enjoyable space to work and relax,” Tony finishes by saying.

Dealing with a specific bug? Learning how to repel ticks from your backyard may also be helpful for you.

If your yard is in need of an upgrade, Ina Garten's new flower garden will inspire you to plant some new blooms. The star chef showed off her brand-new flower garden on Instagram, much to the delight of her fans.

With a mix of greenery and colorful flowers, this show-stopping display makes a statement against neatly trimmed hedges, with fans commenting in droves and asking for information and tips. That's where our experts can help.

Not sure where to start when it comes to your own landscape? Take a look at our advice on planning a cottage garden and design the space of your dreams.

Check out Ina Garten's new flower garden

Looking to try some new landscaping ideas? Ina Garten may have the solution. While normally found cooking up something in her immaculate kitchen, the professional chef and Barefoot Contessa author posted a video of her garden makeover by Marders Landscaping.

Utilizing a variety of garden plant ideas, the space is full of tall purple and white flowers and bunches of green ferns and shrubs. While the garden looks rustic and natural, the precise lawn edging keeps it looking neat and tidy. Fans are loving the overall result in the comments, appreciating the color palette and the wide variety of plants used to create the look.

How to recreate the look

While Ina had some professional help with her green space, you can accomplish a similar look at home with some simple DIY landscaping ideas. The first thing you'll want to do is plan out the layout of the garden. Ina's features bunches of a variety of plants nestled closely together so it looks bright and full. 

Then you'll want to pick out the types of flowers and greenery you'll be using. Ina uses Salvia Caradona for the bright purple flowers (which you can grab in three live pots from Walmart) and Lambs Ear (which you can also get as a starter plant from Walmart) for the bunches of green towards the front. 

While you can use the same types, you can also mix it based on your color palette and climate. You may want to go with low-maintenance garden ideas if you're a beginner. 

“Perennials like lavender, foxgloves, and peonies provide structure and come back year after year, while annuals like cosmos and sweet peas add vibrant color,” suggests Marco Picano, landscaping expert and co-owner of Picano Landscaping.

Ina layers her plants with the tallest in the back and the shortest in the front. The different heights add visual interest and dimension to the overall look. Once your blooms are planted, fill in any remaining bare patches with greenery and small shrubs.

Gardening essentials

Before you get started recreating beautiful modern landscaping ideas such as Ina's, you're going to need some supplies. These gardening essentials are handy for any type of greenery you're planting from ferns to hydrangeas.

Prices were correct the time of publishing.

Ina Garten's new flower garden is full of great ideas to magpie when it comes to home design and gardening. As long as you don't make these common landscaping mistakes, you can recreate her look for thriving cottage-inspired green space. And if you like her garden, don't miss Ina Garten's kitchen cabinets for some on-trend design inspiration to take her style indoors.

Modern landscaping ideas are about designing a garden that's equal parts relaxed and chic. It's like bringing the best of indoors — clean lines, and cool materials like stone, wood, and metal — out into your backyard. 

Geometric shapes and alternative layouts that make your outdoor space pop with personality. It's not just about plants and paths; it's about crafting a whole design that's as stylish as your living room but way more outdoorsy. 

So, whether you're dreaming up a serene sanctuary or a party-ready paradise, use these modern landscaping ideas and make your backyard as gorgeous as the inside of your home!

Modern landscaping ideas for a contemporary look

Give your garden a contemporary makeover with these modern landscaping ideas. Get inspired by everything from water features to statement lighting. You can even find landscaping ideas for a small backyard if you're in a tiny space.

Prices were correct at the time of publishing

1. Using upcycled materials to keep costs down

Using upcycled materials in landscape garden design is not just good for the planet, it's also super smart and stylish. Think old bricks, wooden pallets, or reclaimed metal jazzed up into garden paths, raised beds, or walls. Salvaged wood is perfect for creating a fence structure or rustic benches. 

If you’re feeling creative, turn discarded containers into quirky planters.  It's all about reducing waste while adding loads of character and creativity to your garden. If you're looking for beautiful yet budget front yard landscaping ideas, think vintage tools or industrial bits—they can really up the garden's aesthetic game. 

So, whether you're pinching pennies or just love a good DIY landscaping idea, upcycling is your ticket to a sustainable, personalized landscape. 

2. Create unique, interesting pathways

Practicality meets creativity when you opt for curvy or uniquely shaped pathways in your garden. Instead of sticking to straight lines, imagine pathways that twist and turn and lend some adventure to your backyard retreat. 

Whether you choose natural stone, gravel, or stylish brick pavers, opting for curves rather than a straight shot transforms a functional necessity into a striking design feature. 

To take it up a notch, consider lining these pathways with lush borders filled with ornamental grasses, low shrubs, and vibrant flowers. Not only do these elements add texture and a burst of color, but they also create a picturesque setting that enhances the overall beauty of your garden. 

3. Set the mood with great lighting design

Garden lighting isn't just practical, it's a game-changer after the sun goes down. Carefully positioned lights cast a gentle glow that enhances architectural features, highlights recreational spots, and guides you along winding pathways. LED fixtures are your trusty sidekick here, offering energy efficiency and long-lasting performance. 

Uplights add drama to trees and garden sculptures, while downlights create a serene moonlit effect on pathways and garden beds. For the eco-conscious, solar-powered lights provide a green alternative. 

4. Create abstract walkways with creative paving stones

Paving stones are a practical addition to any garden but they are also a versatile canvas for creating dynamic walkways in your garden. With a variety of shapes and sizes to mix and match, they're perfect for sloping gardens, providing both functionality as stepping stones and defining the garden's shape. 

For a creative twist, leave gaps between the stones for ground cover plants or moss to peek through, adding natural texture and softening the hard edges. Whether they're defining garden zones, guiding paths as stepping stones, or standing out as decorative focal points, paving stones bring a cohesive charm that ties your entire outdoor space together beautifully.

5. Add a serene water feature

Water features are a garden staple, offering a unique space of calmness and serenity. For a modern twist, consider a minimalist fountain or a reflective pool and use materials like natural stone or stainless steel to give it that contemporary edge. Beyond bringing a spot of tranquility and enhancing visual appeal, a well-designed water feature adds elegance and charm that elevate your outdoor space to a whole new level. 

It's the ultimate touch that transforms your garden into a peaceful retreat you'll never want to leave. For those who see their outdoor spaces as an extension of their home, consider using LED lights to illuminate your water feature after sundown. We've included a few top tips to help you on your way to designing the perfect water feature for your garden. 

• Simplicity: Think geometric shapes or minimalist sculptures. A cool, rectangular basin or a cascading water wall can really work well with a contemporary garden vibe.
• Integration with surroundings: Make sure your water feature blends seamlessly with your garden's overall look. Pick materials like stone, stainless steel, or concrete that mesh well with what you've already got going on. Throw in some greenery and strategic lighting to tie everything together
• Functionality and maintenance: Keep it practical! Opt for features that are easy to maintain, like recirculating pumps that save water and hassle. Choose tough materials that can handle the elements with minimal upkeep.

6. Vertical gardens for smaller spaces

Creating a vertical garden in a small modern landscape design is a game-changer for city dwellers with limited outdoor space. A compact garden doesn’t have to mean compromising on style! 

A vertical garden adds lush greenery and elevates the aesthetic, making your small garden feel like a cozy, green oasis. Think about using powder-coated steel planters for a sleek, decorative touch that complements modern designs. These vertical planters not only save space but also bring a burst of life to your walls. Before you embark on creating the perfect vertical garden you’ll need to consider the following:

• Choose the location: Start by scoping out a wall or fence that gets plenty of sunlight. This is super important for your plants to grow strong and healthy
• Select a Structure: Next, consider what kind of structure you’d like to use. Maybe a trellis, some pallets, wall-mounted planters, or even a modular vertical garden system. 
• Choose plants: Pick ones that do well in vertical gardens, like ferns, ivy, succulents, herbs, or some colorful flowering plants. Mixing trailing and upright plants can really make your garden pop. Tony O’Neill, CEO of Simplify Gardening recommends, "Choose plants like ferns, ivy, and herbs for a lush and practical vertical garden. Herb plants don’t just look great  but also provide fresh ingredients for cooking.”

7. Opting for an all over evergreen garden

While bursts of colorful flowers are undeniably beautiful, some people prefer a more unified color scheme in their garden spaces. By using only green plants in your modern garden landscape, you can create a sophisticated and serene vibe. Focusing on various shades and textures of green helps achieve a rich, put-together look. 

Try incorporating a mix of evergreen shrubs, ornamental grasses, succulents, and leafy perennials for diverse and interesting foliage. This fresh palette emphasizes the garden’s structure and design elements, allowing any architectural features and hardscaping to shine. Plus, this approach is a pretty low-maintenance garden idea that provides lush greenery all year round and creates a tranquil, modern outdoor space that feels both fresh and timeless.

Tom Bruzek Co-Founder of Selling Land Fast finds that “Fully green gardens are gaining popularity for their simplicity and sustainability. These gardens, featuring only greenery without flowers, require less maintenance and water, making them eco-friendly and cost-effective. Fully green gardens also provide excellent natural insulation and improve air quality. By incorporating diverse textures and shades of green, these spaces can be visually stunning and soothing!"

8. Adding a spot for outdoor dining

Outdoor living spots are a must for large families and those who love year-round entertaining, especially during the summer months. When planning your modern landscape design, be sure to factor in an outdoor dining area. This addition significantly enhances the functionality and enjoyment of your space all year long. A stylish patio or deck equipped with comfy seating, a dining table, and perhaps even an outdoor kitchen or barbecue for alfresco dining can work particularly well. 

This setup will ensure your garden is ready for summer gatherings and casual get-togethers. To make the area even more versatile, add an awning or pergola with a retractable canopy or a simple structure that you can build upon as and when needed. This will provide much-needed shade during the hot summer days and shelter during rainy or cooler months. Want to further enhance your outdoor social space? 

 "Installing a fire pit or outdoor heater can extend the usability of these areas into cooler evenings, creating a cozy atmosphere," says Tony.

9. Sculptural planting for hot climates

Cacti are perfect for modern garden landscapes. They bring that sculptural, minimalist look and are incredibly low-maintenance. Cactus and succulent plants thrive in sunny, dry climates with well-draining soil, and their ability to store water in their stems and leaves means they can handle droughts better than most plants, which means less watering for you. 

If you're into unique plants, cacti and succulents come in all sorts of fascinating shapes and sizes allowing you to mix and match tall columns, round globes, and varieties with wide, thick leaves. They add texture and a stylish contrast to contemporary gardens, and once they settle in, they pretty much take care of themselves making them a perfect choice for a low-maintenance garden idea. 

Modern landscaping design combines simplicity, functionality, and sustainability, infusing traditional garden concepts with a fresh contemporary edge. As you begin to design your modern garden landscape, it's crucial to consider the garden landscaping costs and how it can increase your home's value. Investing in high-quality landscaping not only boosts your property's curb appeal but also increases its overall worth — a smart move for both your enjoyment and financial well-being in the long run. 

Landscaping mistakes are more common than you might think. If you are planning a new backyard and have drawn up a grand garden design, it's advisable to ensure your visions of an outdoor oasis are practical and achievable for your plot before committing.  

Misguided and inaccurate garden projects could lead to disaster and dire straights. For instance, what's the point of knowing how to plan a cottage garden that's high-maintenance when time is of the essence? Or, why put into place an expensive landscape for privacy idea when it blocks out every ray of sunlight? 

Backyard landscaping ideas can make the most of your outdoor space and increase your home's worth but mistakes can be easily avoided if you take advice from our experts. 

12 landscaping mistakes, and how to avoid them

Landscaping backyard ideas add style, utilize space, and enhance property value. So, the outdoor investment is wise when planned well. To make sure no garden mistakes are made in your backyard, we've selected the most frequent garden plan miscalculations and misconceptions to ensure you don't make the same landscaping mistakes. 

With a huge portfolio of successful garden plans from small garden ideas to DIY landscaping ideas that evaluate large outdoor spaces, these professionals have picked out the most common landscaping mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Bad water management

It's all well planning and planting a beautiful garden but if water management isn't also considered then the project could become a washout. 

"Water management above most is the cause of pests, disease, poor growth, and weeds. Too much water, you get weeds, pests, or diseases too little the plant dies. Not to mention a high water bill," says Eric Preston Stout, Master Gardener and Landscaper with TeachMe.To.

"To avoid these issues, install drip irrigation overspray and never hand water the plants' leaves or branches, only the soil. The roots are the primary and only source of water absorption. Roses especially never want wet leaves, if your roses have orange or black spots, it’s due to wet leaves," advises Eric.

2. Poorly chosen water features

Installing the wrong water feature that is poorly designed or positioned can cause potential issues and even de-value your home.

Robin Edwards, buying agent at Curetons, told Paving Superstore: “A badly designed water feature could negatively affect your property value with any potential buyers put off by the thought of having to remove or maintain a poor quality feature."

Before installing a water feature consider the size of your plot and how much it will cost to run.

"Choosing a water feature that is too big for your can space can make it feel cramped and disproportionate so be sure to keep this in mind before making that purchase," explains Georgina Read, Director at Paving Superstore.

 "When choosing a place to position your water feature, make sure the surface is level and stable as it is important for both the appearance and functioning of the water fountain. A spirit level is a great tool for this, as it can help determine whether a surface is level or not,” continues Georgina. We love this Firecore Magnetic Torpedo Level, available on Amazon with a 4.7-star rating and over 2,700 reviews. 

3. Pruning too much or too little

Trees and shrubs in the backyard can make beautiful natural features that create dappled shade and privacy. But left unkept trees can eventually become a worry. 

Large trees may need an expensive tree surgeon to keep them healthy and safe. Plus positioned wrong, spreading roots can become a danger to property foundations and invalidate policies.

Before you start making harsh hackbacks, take time to learn what to prune in summer and what to prune in spring to ensure a healthy return next season. Some trees and shrubs prefer a tidy-up in fall and winter before they knuckle down for dormancy. If in doubt, hire a contractor who will have extensive tree and shrub knowledge.

4. Poor ground drainage

You don't need to be a knowledgeable gardener to know that a well-hydrated yard is a key element to creating a flourishing outdoor space. But, with improper drainage, your outdoor oasis could soon turn into a soggy swamp. 

"No landscaping mistake is more damaging than improper drainage. It can lead to boggy spots in your yard, poor growing conditions for your lawn and garden, and in severe cases, damage to your home's foundation," says Rafi Friedman, President of Coastal Luxury Outdoors.

"Whenever you're changing the level of your yard, such as by adding a garden bed or building a patio, it's essential to make sure the overall slope of the yard is away from your home and other permanent structures, and ideally towards gutters, storm drains, or bodies of water. It's easy enough to level out some low spots in your lawn, but more serious issues will require re-grading."

5. Ignoring sun direction

When it comes to backyard landscaping ignoring sunlight requirements can lead to disaster down the line.

"Plants have specific needs when it comes to sunlight, and failure to address these needs can result in stunted growth, poor flowering, and overall disappointment with your garden's appearance," explains home service/DIY expert, Tony Mello, and the founder of A1 Garage Door Service.

"Factors like the orientation of your garden, the presence of nearby structures or trees casting shade, and even the time of day can all affect sunlight exposure. Without careful consideration, it's easy to misjudge the amount of sunlight a particular area receives."

Observe your garden throughout the day If your north-facing garden requires shade garden ideas identify areas of partial and deep shade and plant shade plants.  Likewise, south and east-facing gardens will benefit from full sun plants that enjoy the light and heat.

"When planting, position sun-loving plants in areas that receive ample sunlight, ensuring they get at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Conversely, reserve shaded spots for plants that thrive in low-light conditions. By carefully matching plants to their sunlight requirements, you can create a vibrant and healthy garden that flourishes throughout the growing season," continues Tony.

6. Invasive planting

A garden with rebellious plants can soon get out of control and will take more than a weekend of weeding and light pruning to tidy up.

Plus, if invasive and destructive plant species, such as bamboo or knotweed you'll need to sort the help of experts. Only landscape professionals know how to get rid of Japanese knotweed entirely.

"Planting invasive or destructive species, such as bamboo, ivy, mulberry trees and Japanese knotweed, just because they look visually appealing is a big landscaping mistake," says garden expert, Ionel Giuran at Fantastic Gardeners

"Bamboo, for example, is very hard to control, especially when it’s planted directly in the ground instead of in containers. This plant spreads rapidly and can affect other plants in your yard, competing for resources."

Bamboo is a stylish and structural plant that adds vertical height and privacy to gardens, but to keep it under control always plant it in pots.

7. Planting too close to buildings

We've all seen and heard about Wisteria Hysteria that's stemmed from Regency garden ideas such as the beautiful purple blooms constantly cascading down the Bridgerton Manson. But, in reality, choosing to grow climbing plants directly onto exterior brickwork can be a landscaping mistake to avoid. 

If you choose to grow wisteria over the front or back of your home, you'll need to ensure there is an additional structure in place to not only support the heavy branches but deter the plant from damaging drainpipes and brickwork. 

Species with self-attaching aerial roots such as English need careful consideration and the right conditions and maintenance to grow safely. 

"Ivy is a plant that can damage nearby structures, specifically more aged, brick homes', explains Ionel Giuran.

8. Planting trees in wrong positions

When it comes to planting trees in your backyard consider their size at maturity including roots. If you live in an area where there is heavy clay soil planting too close to a building can also lead to subsidence.

"I’d highly advise against planting them too close to your house, because trees, specifically, can grow root systems under the house foundations and even into the pipes and other water structures, causing a lot of property damage," confirms Ionel.

Tree fruits can also wreak havoc at harvest time. 

"Mulberry trees are very messy because of their berries, which usually fall on the ground and stain any concrete pavements or pathways. Also, birds are usually attracted to these berries and, after they eat them, they produce very acidic droppings which can damage paint jobs and concrete structures."

9. Neglecting the lawn

If your garden boasts a beautiful lawn it's vital to keep it in vivid shape. That, being said a luscious lawn doesn't grow by itself.

Matt Adams, Lawncare Expert and Founder of The Relentless Gardener says: “It can be easy to get lazy with our lawns, but if we enjoy our lawns too much and ignore what’s growing on them, it’ll land you with bigger problems."

Overwatering and cutting faux pas are the easiest lawn mistakes to make.

"Too much water can lead to shallow roots, which can make lawn glass more susceptible to disease and pests and it can also lead to the growth of weeds. I’d recommend watering your lawn deeply but infrequently and making sure your lawn has good drainage, says Ionel Giuran.

"On the other hand, mowing your lawn grass too short can stress it, which similarly makes it vulnerable to disease, pests, and drought, leading also to weed growth. To avoid this, set your mower blade to the highest setting and only cut off the top one-third of the grass blades. This way, your lawn will develop a deeper root system and stay healthier."

To give your lawn a boost save it with seaweed every summer. 

"August you should be feeding your lawn with a fertilizer that contains a high level of seaweed, as it helps with turf hardiness and protects it from increased foot traffic - ideal for active family lawns. In return your grass will grow quicker and stronger, ensuring it is protected at all costs. Seaweed also increases the biodiversity of the soil, meaning better overall root health, adds Matt.

10. Planting overload

A garden bursting with brightly colored flower beds and packed raised planters may seem like the dream but extravagant flower bed ideas require knowledge, time, and money to maintain.

For a more practical floral display consider fewer flower beds planted with maintenance foliage that can be enjoyed rather than endlessly working on. 

A less is more approach will also be practical for weed control. In large gardens, weeding mistakes will certainly make your garden high-maintenance. 

"Many folks think [landscaping fabric] is a one-stop solution to weed control, but it's far from it. The truth is, that landscaping fabric can become a massive nuisance over time. It often ends up surfacing and making a mess of the beds, not to mention it restricts water and nutrient flow to the plants, "says Bryan Clayton CEO of Your Green Pal

"Instead of laying down the fabric, you’re way better off applying a granular pre-emergent herbicide each year when you refresh your mulch. This approach targets the weeds without the drawbacks of fabric. Ditch the fabric and save yourself time and headaches. Stick with proven weed control methods that don't complicate your garden care."

11. Forgetting hardscaping

Not only does a successful landscape garden include perfect planting techniques, but hard landscaping is crucial for structural purposes too. Otherwise, the garden's purpose may look aimless and useless.

"Many a time, gardeners see only the beauty in plants, yet fail to incorporate important aspects of hardscape like; paths, walls, and patios among others," explains  Nathan Thorne, Gardening Expert and CEO of handyflowers.co.uk

“Start with the layout and movement of your landscape design: This will involve thinking through how one will be using the space; Hardscape: This refers to the design of structures that are hard or rigid in the design of the landscape, these structures should harmonize with style and color of the house and garden."

12. Choosing the wrong materials

Following on from hard-landscaping, investing in the wrong materials for pathways, patios or garden privacy structures could bring on many repair jobs and worse still, safety concerns. 

For instance, a recent #GardenTok hack that turns used pallets into decking might seem like a budget-friendly small garden decking idea, but in reality, it's unsafe. 

"Pallets are often made from low-grade wood that is not treated for outdoor use, making them prone to rotting, warping, and splintering when exposed to the elements. Furthermore, the wood used in pallets generally has a shorter lifespan compared to traditional decking materials, explains Alison MacLean at  St. Modwen Homes.

There are many garden landscaping materials to choose from, such as soil, mulch, and sand, as well as hard landscaping materials to work with, such as gravel, paving, and decking timber. It pays to do your homework or consult the expertise of a contractor before you start.

All gardens will benefit from a garden landscaping plan. Whether you do your research and take on these tips or look to use a garden designer, you'll be sure to build the garden of your dreams with no delusions. 

If you're a newbie gardener, Bobby Berk's plant watering hack is here to save the day. This simple technique makes taking care of plants so easy.

If you're stressed about either over or under-watering, Bobby's tip makes sure your plant gets just the right amount. No need to stick to a complicated watering schedule.

Get the low-down on this watering technique so you can avoid killing one of the best indoor plants.

Bobby Berk's plant watering hack

A little worried about looking after your plants? While investing in easy plants is a good way to start, all plants still need basic care and watering. It may seem intimidating to know how often to water a fiddle leaf fig but switching up how you actually water the plant can make a big difference.

That's where Bobby Berk comes in. Professional interior designer and star of the Netflix hit, Queer Eye, Bobby shares plenty of tips and tricks on his Instagram. In one of his latest videos, he demonstrates an easy way to water plants without worrying about giving them too much or too little.

How to self-water plants

Instead of pouring water on top of a plant like you would with a traditional watering can, this method allows for the plant to soak up water through the roots. The plant can absorb however much water it needs.

While you can invest in a self-watering planter, like this budget-friendly planter available from Walmart, which stores water within the planter itself, you can also use supplies you likely already have at home. All you need is a bowl large enough to fit the plant pot you're watering. 

Simply fill the bowl with lukewarm water and submerge the plants for at least an hour. Make sure your plant is in a pot with drainage holes, like these highly-rated planters available on Amazon with a 4.7-star rating and over 1,500 reviews, so the roots can pull water up from the bowl. Like in Bobby's video, you'll see the water slowly seep into the plant and drain from the bowl.

This method allows you to water your plants less frequently. You don't have to stick to a strict schedule as the plant is absorbing the exact amount it needs, every time you submerge it. "Over or underwatering can contribute to brown spots," says Jen McDonald, plant expert and founder of Garden Girls. "A visual inspection will usually tell you which is true. If leaves look limp, the plant is likely thirsty. If the leaves turn color (green to yellow), this is likely an indication of overwatering."

However, you will still want to water your greenery fairly regularly. "Water the plant when the top inch of the soil feels dry, which typically occurs about once a week, but this can vary based on the light and humidity in your home. In winter, the plant's water needs decrease as its growth slows down," says Gene Caballero, co-founder of Green Pal.

Bobby proves he isn't just a design expert, he's full of tips and tricks to use around the house. His aluminum foil hack can be used for spotless dishes and his decluttering hack using numbers is great for organization. Keep an eye on the Queer Eye star's socials for even more ideas.

Get ready for the warmer months and learn what to prune in summer to keep flowers, bushes, and trees happy and healthy.

Before you start making any drastic cuts, we've asked gardening and landscaping experts what to trim back during this period. They advise how can keep your plants looking full and lush, and only pruning what is necessary to help them thrive.

Once you start planning your gardening jobs for the year, your green space will flourish, and florals will produce more stunning blooms than ever.

What to prune in summer

After nailing your garden plant ideas, you need to make sure you're looking after your blooms all year long so they don't wilt or die off. Pruning, or selectively cutting off parts of a plant, will actually keep your plants and flowers healthy throughout the seasons. Think of it like a gardening haircut!

But exactly do you need to trim? If you're a newbie to the gardening game, you may be a little worried about cutting off all your precious sprouts especially when it's hotter. Don't worry — our pros are here to the rescue to explain what to prune in summer. 

"I’ve seen the impact of proper summer pruning on plant health and aesthetics. During the summer months, it’s essential to focus on deadheading flowering shrubs, thinning fruit trees, and maintaining hedges and topiaries," says Joe Gerrior, owner of Gerrior Masonry & Landscape Construction Corp.

Wondering how to actually prune your plants? Josh Tesolin, co-founder of RusticWise, a resource for home, garden, and sustainability says, "The best way to keep these types of plants tidy and healthy is to pinch them back. You can do this with your fingers by simply pinching and pulling off the top inch or two of the tips or you can also use a pair of sharp hand pruners to do this."

1. Flowering plants

Trimming flowering plants are a good place to start when it comes to summer pruning as the petals and flower heads can dry out quickly and weigh down the plant. 

"Deadheading spent flowers from plants keeps the energy production on growing lush new flowers and foliage instead of seed production," says Josh.

But which types of flowers should you be trimming? 

"Think flowering annual plants such as begonia, celosia, coleus, and petunia—especially if they are experiencing leggy growth. Other perennial plants that get top-heavy could do with a small pruning to make the plant fuller and healthier. These include chrysanthemum, sedum, and sneezeweed," says Josh.

Plus, flowering plants can help attract wildlife to your yard. "Flowers like bee balm, yarrow, and phlox, which are all summer perennials, should be pruned during the late spring-early summer period. Pruning these plants helps ensure that they are as abundant with healthy flowers as possible during the summer. These are also the kind of plants that can be really helpful with attracting pollinators to your yard," says Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO of Lawn Love.

Removing flowers now will actually help more bloom next year for an even bigger garden. "I always make sure to remove spent blooms just above a healthy set of leaves. This not only keeps the plants looking tidy but also encourages a second wave of flowers. In our projects, this simple practice has significantly extended the blooming season," says Scott McLeod, owner of McLeod Landscaping.

2. Fruit trees

Do you have fruit trees like lemons or apples in your yard? Whether you have potted trees, like this lemon brush from Walmart, or wild ones, it's time to give them a trim. "By carefully removing crowded branches, you can improve air circulation and sunlight reach, which helps prevent diseases. On several of our clients’ properties, we’ve seen a notable improvement in fruit quality and harvest ease. I always ensure not to remove more than 20-30% of the canopy at once to minimize stress on the trees," says Scott.

Cutting back the branches on a fruit tree not only helps the amount of fruit a tree will produce but will improve the taste as well. "By prudently eliminating some excess branches as well as any suckers or water sprouts, more air will be able to flow through the tree and sun rays directly penetrate into it, leading to the development of juicy larger fruits during summer. Furthermore, thinning out the crown makes the energy of the plant evenly distributed hence a lot of fruits that can be harvested," says Nathan Thorne, a professional gardening expert and CEO of Handyflowers.

3. Hedges and shrubs

If you've planted some shrubs for privacy in your yard, they will need tidying for the summer months. Just make sure to sharpen your garden shears (we love these best-selling Fiskars shears from Walmart) before you get started. 

Nicely trimmed hedges are a great landscaping idea for small backyards. "Hedges are the silent heroes of landscaping since they provide privacy, structure, and a sense of enclosure to outdoor spaces. To maintain their neat appearance throughout summer periods, I suggest you prune them in late spring or early summer. It’s important not to over-prune while using sharp shears or hedge trimmers to take on your desired shape," says Nathan.

Or you can use an electric trimmer, like this Black + Decker hedge trimmer available on Amazon with over 13,000 reviews. "I use electric trimmers for precision, making sure to keep the top slightly narrower than the base to allow sunlight to reach all parts of the plant. This technique has consistently resulted in lush, green growth for our clients," says Scott.

Gardening with the season is an important part of keeping a healthy, beautiful garden. Trimming back flowering plants, trees, and hedges, will not only create a neat and tidy backyard but ensure they grow back even stronger next year. If you're looking to add more blooms to your green space, you may want to check which gardening zone you're in to make sure your plants will thrive in the climate.