To protect garden beds from summer heat stress, focus on deep watering, smart mulching, partial shade, and heat-tolerant plants. These practical strategies keep vegetables, herbs, and flowers thriving even during Northeast Ohio’s hottest months. How to Protect Your Garden Beds from Summer Heat Stress Northeast Ohio summers are no joke. By mid-July, the cool spring...
Crabgrass is a fast-growing, heat-loving annual weed that thrives in thin, compacted, or poorly maintained lawns. It germinates in spring, spreads aggressively in summer, and drops thousands of seeds before dying in fall. The best defense is healthy turf, timely mowing, and targeted pre- and post-emergent treatments. 🌱 What Is Crabgrass? Crabgrass (Digitaria spp.) is...
In July, weeds grow aggressively thanks to heat, sun, and rain. Spotting and treating invaders like crabgrass, nutsedge, and creeping Charlie now can prevent them from taking over your lawn or garden. The key is timely ID, targeted removal, and ongoing prevention. What Weeds to Watch Out for in July (And How to Stop Them)...
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 You Do All Summer Think you’ve missed the window...
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 mulch may be working harder—or less effectively—than you...
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, price, and installation effort. What Type of Edging Is Right...
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 the plant in the heat. Should You Trim Shrubs in...
🌳 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 appear. A proactive approach is cheaper and safer than...
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 and root protection for the best results. Introduction You’ve found...
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 better long-term results. Can I Edge My Lawn Myself? (DIY...