Just because you have a small backyard or live in a highrise doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the beauty and benefits of gardening. You can grow herbs, vegetables, flowers and even citrus fruits in containers on balconies and porches. Here are some tips for successful container gardening. Don’t be afraid to be bold in your […]
Warmer, longer days bring lots of opportunities to be outdoors with your family and friends. But unwanted guests – mosquitoes and other bugs – often tag along, too. When you’re selecting the plantings for your yard this summer, consider these five options that repel insects, naturally. Marigolds: This bright, hardy annual flowering plant is not […]
Warmer weather means more people are firing up their barbecue grills – just in time for May’s National BBQ Month. Outdoor entertaining is one of the best things about milder temperatures. Take some time this month to spruce up your yard to get it ready for the warm weather months. Spring yard chores can be fun […]
Did you know that we’re in the midst of “Screen-Free Week?” It’s a time dedicated to turning off TV, video, mobile games and other screens used for entertainment and turning to other activities instead. Getting outside is a great alternative to screen time. TurfMutt’s Family Activities Guide has lots of ideas to help families connect […]
The first week of May is National Herb Week, and in celebration here are some tips for growing herbs. Even if you don’t have a green thumb, herbs are one of the easiest plants to manage – either on your kitchen counter top, in your backyard, or in containers on a porch or balcony. 1. […]
According to a recent study by the American Heart Association (AHA), having a canine companion may help lower your risk for heart disease. The study concluded that pet ownership, and particularly dog ownership, is likely associated with decreased cardiovascular disease risk. Why? Dogs naturally cause their owners to be more active, particularly with regular walks […]
Spring cleaning isn’t just something you need to do to the inside of your home. Your yard also needs a springtime spruce up to look its best. Here are five tips for getting your yard in tip-top shape for spring. 1. Clean. Remove any dead plants, flowers, weeds, branches and leaves. Make a game of […]
As the saying goes, “April showers bring May flowers,” but they also sometimes bring severe weather that can damage your lawn, trees and landscaping. Here are a few tips** to help you deal with storm damage to your yard. If your yard was flooded you first need to let the lawn dry out, which could […]
Springtime has arrived, and it is ushering in warmer weather in many parts of the country. This means more people are getting out of their homes and into their yards, parks and green spaces. Here are a few ideas on how to collaborate with your community through your natural environment. Create a map of the […]
Community gardens in low-income elementary schools are helping children learn science, math, language arts and more. REAL School Gardens is a nonprofit organization that helps bring learning gardens to low-income elementary schools. The group has funded gardens in more than 90 schools in Texas. PEER Associates, Inc. conducted a three-year evaluation of the program. It […]