Why Mulching in July Might Be the Smartest Thing You Do All Summer
Adding mulch in July helps lock in soil moisture, smother weeds, and protect plant roots from intense summer heat. It’s a smart mid-season move that improves garden health now and sets you up for an easier fall. Why Mulching in July Might Be the Smartest Thing...
How do I know if I need more mulch?
If your mulch is faded, patchy, under 2 inches deep, or no longer holding moisture and blocking weeds, it’s time to refresh. A quick inspection of color, depth, and performance gives you everything you need to know. How Do I Know If I Need More Mulch? Your...
Best Landscape Edging Materials: Pros & Cons of Every Type
The best edging material for your yard depends on your budget, style, and how permanent you want the solution to be. Steel offers clean lines and durability, stone adds a natural look, while plastic is affordable but less long-lasting. Each option has trade-offs in looks,...
What Bushes Should You Trim in June?
In June, it's safe to trim spring-flowering shrubs like lilacs, forsythia, and viburnum right after they finish blooming. You can also shape fast-growing hedges like boxwood and privet. Avoid pruning summer and fall bloomers — you’ll risk cutting off this year’s flower buds and stressing...
What to Do About Branches Hanging Over Walkways or Rooflines
🌳 Key Takeaway: Don’t Ignore Branches Hanging Over Your Roof Branches hanging over your roof or walkways can cause serious problems — from damaging shingles to creating pest access or injury risks. Trim them as soon as possible, ideally before storm season or signs of wear...
Is It Too Hot to Plant New Shrubs in June?
No, it’s not too hot to plant shrubs in June — but timing and technique matter. With proper watering, mulch, and care, container-grown shrubs can still establish successfully in early summer, especially in Northeast Ohio. Avoid planting during heatwaves and skip bare-root stock; prioritize hydration...
Can I Edge My Lawn Myself? (DIY vs Pro Results Compared)
Yes, you can edge your lawn yourself — especially if you’re willing to invest in the right tools and learn the technique. However, if you want perfectly clean lines, don’t have the time, or feel uneasy handling powerful tools, hiring a pro may give you...
What Flowers Can You Safely Plant in June Without Wasting Money?
You can absolutely plant flowers in June — but choosing the right varieties is key to getting blooms that thrive, not just survive. Annuals like zinnias, marigolds, cosmos, and sunflowers love the heat, while perennials in containers can still establish if watered well. Avoid cool-season...
Toads in the Garden: What a Toad Sighting May Mean
Toads are incredibly beneficial for your garden, acting as natural pest control by eating hundreds of insects daily. Myths like “toads cause warts” are false. Unless you're dealing with a rare invasive species, keeping toads around is one of the easiest, low-effort ways to protect...
How Mulch Helps Protect Your Plants Year-Round
Mulch is more than just a finishing touch for your flower beds — it's a hardworking, year-round ally in maintaining a healthy, resilient garden. No matter the season, mulch plays an essential role in protecting your plants, conditioning your soil, and reducing the time and...