Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and many of you are busy planning your menus and shopping for ingredients. But what’s a great meal without a beautiful table? Have you had time to consider a seasonal centerpiece that will accentuate your meal? Yes, it’s just one more chore to add to your list! But a…
Like many homeowners, you might require a backyard shed to store your gardening equipment. But the shed itself can serve as an eyesore that detracts from your overall landscaping. The key is to carefully plan the landscaping around your shed, so that it blends in seamlessly with the rest of your backyard. First, of course,…
If you live in a neighborhood with sidewalks, you probably appreciate the walkable atmosphere and better connection with your neighbors. But sidewalks also present a challenge for your landscaping. What do you do with that strip of yard between the sidewalk and road? How can you make it attractive, without causing any problems? It’s called…
With the drought getting even worse, you wouldn’t think that many homeowners are highly concerned with water runoff. But actually, that’s exactly what happens. When the ground is dried and hardened from long periods of drought, it won’t readily soak up water introduced by a sprinkler system, the garden hose, or rainfall. Instead, you will…
With fall just beginning and the holiday season looming, you probably aren’t even thinking about spring just yet! But if you want to enjoy a beautiful and bountiful garden in the spring, putting forth a little effort now will go a long way toward reaping greater rewards later. As a bonus, you might find that…
We tend to think of spring and summer as the ideal time for flowers in the garden, but plenty of species actually bloom in autumn. In fact, it can be interesting to note that most fall blooms tend to match the colors we typically associate with autumn leaves. Chrysanthemums, in particular, are full and dense…
Wine has enjoyed a resurgence of popularity in recent years, with many of us enjoying wine tastings, vineyard visits, and that relaxing afternoon glass of wine on the porch. But have you ever considered making your own wine? Experiencing the entire process from start to finish can be a truly educational hobby, and you could…
Now that summer is winding down, it’s time to get your landscaping and garden ready for the change in seasons. Luckily, we get to enjoy an extended warm season here in Southern California, so you can actually enjoy a second growing season! But you should definitely pay attention to a few details regarding the change…
During times of drought, we all need to do our part to reduce water usage. But at the same time, dry conditions create environmental hazards like dying trees and the possibility of wildfires. While conserving water is important, it is possible to go too far and increase the risk to your own property and life….
Children with special needs like autism or ADHD need outdoor time as much as any other child. But their individual challenges often necessitate some changes to your typical backyard. These ideas can help you create a fun and safe outdoor environment for your child, while accounting for their unique needs. Build a fence. For many…
Everyone’s favorite season has finally arrived! And with it comes the changing of leaves on deciduous trees. While raking the lawn might not be your favorite chore, you can at least have fun with a variety of fall-themed craft activities. The following ideas are great for kids and adults alike, and can help you use…
Stepping stones can be one of the simplest ways of constructing an attractive pathway through your yard or garden. But it’s a bit more complicated than simply tossing down a row of concrete squares or stones. You might also need to landscape around them a bit, both to make the pathway more appealing and to…
Have you noticed that your water bills seem higher than expected? Or do you just want to ensure that all of your home’s systems continue to function properly? Either way, it makes sense to routinely check your landscaping irrigation system for leaks. They can and do happen, and a leak can cost you in terms…
Reading is good for your mind, and sunlight and fresh air are good for your health. Why not combine the two, and enjoy reading outdoors more often? Create a cozy reading nook outdoors, and you can disappear into your own private hideaway. But we must warn you; the whole family might love it! The following…
Summer is a time of fun outdoor parties, lounging by the pool, and barbecues with friends. And due to the heat, everyone needs a nice cold beverage. If you’re looking to add festivity to your get-togethers, or simply enjoy a more posh atmosphere when you’re hanging out alone, ice cubes infused with edible flowers or…