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CNET
2 days ago
- Climate
- CNET
These 5 Gardening Tips Made My Lawn the Brag of the Block
Mowing your lawn isn't just about keeping things tidy -- in the summer heat, it's one of the most important tools you have to help your grass survive. Scorching sun and quick evaporation can turn a healthy yard brown fast, but small changes to your mowing routine can make all the difference. If you're cutting too short, mowing in peak heat or using dull blades, your lawn might be struggling more than it needs to. Instead, raise your mower height, mow early in the morning or late in the evening, and leave the clippings behind to help the soil hold onto moisture. These tweaks can reduce stress on your grass and boost its chances of staying green, even during the hottest weeks. With just a few adjustments, your yard can thrive while your neighbors' turn crispy. Instead of letting your grass become a casualty of the summer sun, take a few simple steps to give it a better shot at staying lush and green. Raise the mower height, mow when it's cooler outside, and leave the clippings on the ground to help the soil retain moisture. These may sound like small changes, but they make a big impact over time. With the right approach, your lawn can stay vibrant even when the weather is working against it. 1. Keep it long A short trim can cause damage to your lawn, especially during hotter months. Chris Wedel/CNET For some, a perfect lawn is always well-trimmed and consistently kept short. Unfortunately, while this may look nice, it can be a detriment to the overall life of your grass. During the hottest days of summer when your yard is competing with sweltering heat, blazing sun and less rain, it's best to keep the grass about 4 inches high after a cut. That may seem long but taller grass retains more water and has longer, healthier roots. 2. Wait until the grass is dry Mowing when there is still dew on the ground can damage your lawn. Russell Holly/CNET It may seem obvious during the summer when it reaches unbearable temps during the day to try and get started mowing early in the cool morning hours. But if there's still dew on the ground, you can lose time and damage your lawn. This is caused by the high likelihood that wet grass will clump up in the discharge chute (that flappy thing on the side), requiring you to stop and remove the clog. Plus, your mower tires won't get great traction either and could put tracks in your yard. Instead, wait until later in the morning when the dew dries, or mow the lawn late in the day before the evening dew. Also, time your sprinklers to start up in the late evening or at night so there isn't extra moisture on the grass when you mow. Here are some more watering tips for your lawn. 3. Go slower Keep your speeds low to make mowing go fast. Alina Bradford/CNET Short on time or just want to get the chore over faster? Then going fast makes the most sense, right? But while it's tempting to go fast while mowing, it can actually create more work for you. By not taking your time and letting the mower do its job properly, there's a good chance it will leave some areas uncut and give the lawn an uneven, sloppy look. This means you'll have to take more time to re-mow it to make the lawn look correct. Instead, take the path of the turtle -- slow and steady. A slower, mid-speed mowing session is faster and better for your lawn than zooming around the grass and ultimately needing to re-mow it later. Also, remember that the choke needs to be lower for slower speeds to run properly. 4. Be consistent My yard has never had such a professional look. Chris Wedel/CNET Mowing randomly across your lawn can take up more time and lead to an uneven cut. Follow a pattern instead, using this technique: Start on the edge of your lawn with the discharge chute pointing toward your lawn Mow around the perimeter of your lawn When you get to your starting point, make a U-turn so the discharge chute is facing the strip you just cut Keep mowing around the perimeter, making sure the discharge chute is pointed toward where you just mowed. In the end, your lawn will end up with a nice pattern and the discharge chute won't clog. How to Prep Your Lawn Mower for the Season How to Prep Your Lawn Mower for the Season Click to unmute Video Player is loading. Play Video Pause Skip Backward Skip Forward Next playlist item Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration 2:58 Loaded : 3.33% 0:00 Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 2:58 Share Fullscreen This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Text Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Caption Area Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Drop shadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Close Modal Dialog This is a modal window. This modal can be closed by pressing the Escape key or activating the close button. Close Modal Dialog This is a modal window. This modal can be closed by pressing the Escape key or activating the close button. How to Prep Your Lawn Mower for the Season 5. Prep your mower for the next round Regular maintenance on your mower is important to ensure it is reliable and does a great job each and every time you take it out. Spending a little time after you finish mowing will keep your mower in tip-top shape and lasting longer. Start by turning the mower over and rinsing the blades and discharge chute with a garden hose before putting it away. This will prevent grass from building up, drying out and being much harder to remove. If the air filter on your push mower looks dirty, give it a good wash with some mild dish soap and rinse it with the garden hose. Set the filter aside to dry so you can put it on right before mowing next time. One of the best time savers is keeping your lawn mower blade sharp. A dull blade will require you to go over the same patch of lawn more than once to cut any raggedy bits left behind. A sharp blade allows you to zip around your lawn just once and still get great results. Most mower repair shops will sharpen the blades for a small fee, or you can do it yourself with these tips. FAQs to help you get the best-looking lawn What order should I mow my lawn? It's best to start mowing around the edges of your lawn, with the grass clippings going into your uncut grass. After cutting around the entire perimeter of your yard, turn back around and mow in the opposite direction, with the grass chute pointing toward the perimeter grass you already cut. Continue this mowing direction until complete. Want to make watering your lawn easier? Here's CNET's guide to making your own automated lawn watering system.
Yahoo
7 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Maximize Your Yield With Square Foot Gardening
Do you own a small backyard and dream of growing enough food for your whole family? Square Foot Gardening (SFG) might be your best friend. It is a method of dividing your garden into small, manageable squares, allowing you to pack in more plants without the chaos. Experts say that home gardens using this method can produce significantly more food than traditional row planting in the same space. While the exact increase in produce depends on your crops, climate, and maintenance, a 20-30% increase per square foot compared to row gardening is a realistic ballpark estimate. Mel Bartholomew first introduced square foot gardening, which has changed how people think about growing vegetables. Because this method is incredibly low-effort and requires less space, you can easily do it even as a beginner with a small yard. You don't need to dig long rows, bend over for hours pulling weeds, or haul heavy tools around. The raised beds and defined grid make everything easier on your back and knees. Here are 14 expert tips to maximize your produce with SFG. 1. Plan Your Layout Before planting, it's important to sketch out your garden like a puzzle. Square foot gardening divides your raised bed into 1x1-foot squares, and each of those little boxes has a specific purpose. Planning your layout (and which plants will do best) helps you avoid overcrowding and makes sure every plant gets the space, sunlight, and airflow it needs. Think about what you love to eat, what grows well in your area, and how tall each plant gets. When everything is spaced just right, your plants grow better, and you can fit more in a small area. 2. Use Raised Beds for Better Results To make Square Foot Gardening work effectively, opt for a raised bed. These square-shaped plots are usually 4'x4' and 6-12 inches deep and give you control over the soil, drainage, and spacing. Raised beds can produce 2–4 times more produce than in-ground beds due to improved soil quality and drainage. They also make it easier to reach your plants without stepping on the soil, which keeps it fluffy and full of oxygen. Additionally, raised beds warm up faster in the spring, allowing you to start planting earlier and extend your growing season. 3. Stick to the 'Mel's Mix' Soil Formula Mel Bartholomew recommended a mix of 1/3 peat moss, 1/3 vermiculite, and 1/3 compost, called 'Mel's Mix.' This combo is lightweight, holds moisture well, and is packed with nutrients. This blend boosts plant growth as compared to regular garden soil. This mix also reduces the need for constant fertilizing. It's easy to work with and helps plants grow strong roots, which means more fruits and vegetables from each square. Refresh your soil each season by adding compost to maintain fertility and avoid heavy clay or sandy soils, as they either drown roots or dry out too quickly. 4. Follow Proper Plant Spacing Guidelines Overcrowding leads to competition for nutrients, resulting in stunted growth. Stick to Mel Bartholomew's classic square foot spacing, for example, one plant per square (tomatoes), four plants (lettuce), or 16 plants of radishes. Correct spacing can increase productivity and lower the risk of plant diseases caused by poor airflow. Neat spacing also makes harvesting easier and keeps the garden looking tidy and healthy. 5. Rotate Crops Each Season Just like in big farms, rotating crops helps prevent soil exhaustion and pest buildup. When you plant the same veggie in the same spot every season, it uses up the same nutrients and attracts the same bugs. Rotate plant families—like moving tomatoes after planting leafy greens. Crop rotation can reduce soil-borne diseases and increase long-term production. It's an easy habit that makes a big difference. 6. Water Deep, Not Often Watering deeply encourages strong root growth, whereas frequent shallow watering can weaken plants. Watering when the top inch of soil feels dry and soaking it to at least 6 inches deep is usually recommended. Use a watering can or drip system to keep the water near the base of each plant. Early morning watering helps avoid mold and mildew while saving water by reducing evaporation. This way, you'll grow plants that are more resilient, productive, and efficient with water, which is crucial for maximizing yields in your square-foot garden. 7. Add a Trellis to Maximize Vertical Space Trellises are perfect for square-foot gardens because they allow you to grow plants like peas, melons, or squash upward. This method saves ground space for shorter crops and improves airflow, which helps prevent disease. Use strong materials like metal mesh, bamboo, or wooden stakes. Trellising reduces fungal infections and enhances air circulation, promoting healthier plants and higher yields. 8. Companion Plant to Boost Growth Some plants grow better when paired with the right neighbors. For example, planting basil near tomatoes can enhance flavor and reduce pest infestations. Marigolds also repel insects when planted alongside veggies. This is called companion planting. Companion planting improved yields by 15–30% in certain combinations. It's a smart way to keep your garden healthy without chemicals. 9. Use Mulch to Lock In Moisture A thin layer of mulch—such as straw, wood chips, or shredded leaves — keeps the soil cool and moist. It also stops weeds from growing. Mulching can reduce water loss significantly. This is especially crucial in square foot gardening, where soil can dry out quickly in tightly planted beds. Mulch also helps prevent soil from getting onto leaves, which can spread disease. Just make sure it's not packed too tightly around stems, so air can still circulate. For container square foot gardens, cocoa hulls or pine needles are lightweight options that won't compact over time. 10. Start from Seed When Possible Seeds are cheaper, offer more variety, and give plants a stronger root system from the start. Seedlings grown directly in the garden adapt better to their environment than store-bought transplants. You can start early indoors or sow seeds directly into your garden. Direct seeding reduces transplant shock and saves a large amount of costs compared to buying nursery plants. 11. Harvest Often to Encourage More Growth The more you harvest, the more your plants will keep producing, especially for crops like lettuce, beans, and cucumbers. Letting food over-ripen on the plant tells it to stop growing. Keep a harvest basket handy whenever you visit your garden - you'll be amazed how much more food you'll gather with this simple habit. In square foot gardening, frequent harvesting is a crucial technique to maximize every inch of your space. 12. Track What Works (and What Doesn't) Keep a small garden journal or use a garden app to record what you planted, how much it produced, and any challenges that arose. This info helps you make better choices next season. Keep a simple garden journal noting which varieties performed best, germination rates, and planting dates. Over seasons, you'll develop a customized planting guide perfectly suited to your microclimate and gardening style. With practice, seed starting becomes one of the most rewarding and economical skills in the Square Foot Gardener's toolkit. 13. Extend the Season with Row Covers & Cold Frames Row covers and cold frames are great tools to stretch your growing season, especially in cooler climates. They protect plants from frost, wind, and sudden temperature drops, giving you extra weeks of growing time in spring and fall. Row covers are lightweight fabric sheets you drape over your plants, while cold frames are like mini greenhouses made of glass or plastic. Both trap heat and create a warmer microclimate for your crops. This means you can plant earlier, harvest later, and even grow cold-loving veggies like spinach, kale, and lettuce all winter long in many zones 14. Feed Your Soil, Not Just Your Plants Healthy soil is the secret behind every thriving square foot garden. Instead of just adding fertilizers, focus on improving the soil by regularly mixing in compost. It provides essential nutrients, supports beneficial microbes, and enhances water retention. You don't need fancy store-bought compost—kitchen scraps, dry leaves, and garden clippings work just fine. When you enrich the soil each season, your plants will grow stronger, resist pests more effectively, and yield a more abundant harvest with less effort. Solve the daily Crossword
The Sun
15-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Sun
A spoonful of £1.19 Aldi buy will bring your scorched, patchy lawn back to life – it's likely in your cupboards already
THE recent bout of hot weather may have had a harsh affect on your lawn. Adding a kitchen staple to your grass can help to bring it back to life this summer. 2 Whether you're planning on hosting a barbecue or you're just sick of the sight of the yellowed patches on your lawn, there's no better time for a spruce up. And you won't even have to splurge on pricey products to get your lawn in tip-top shape. The experts at Lilydale Instant Lawns revealed that a common item from your kitchen cupboard can help to transform your grass. Benefits of coffee grounds According to the pros, coffee grounds are rich in nitrogen, an essential ingredient for healthy plant growth and the overall health of your lawn. Coffee grounds can also improve soil structure, making it looser and more aerated, which is good for root growth. You can pick up a jar of coffee for just £1.19 from Aldi. Gardening experts recommend ensuring your coffee grounds are dry before using them on lawns. So if you're planning on reusing spent grounds, make sure they're thoroughly dried out beforehand. Evenly distribute the coffee grounds over the grass to prevent clumping. Follow this up by gently raking the coffee into the soil to aid integration. Good for the environment As well as boosting your lawn's growth, this process also helps to recycle your waste. And adding coffee grounds to your garden can also help to repel pests. The ingredient also proves to be beneficial for your flower beds and plant pots. A gardening expert also recommends adding coffee to your lawn this summer. Plus, more savvy and unusual ways you can reuse your coffee grounds. More lawn hacks And if you mix your coffee grounds with two other kitchen ingredients, you can create your own DIY fertiliser. Another trick can help to transform the yellow patches on your lawn this summer. A budget-friendly step will keep your grass looking greener than ever throughout the year. Plus, a mowing hack that gardeners swear by for keeping your grass looking lush. And make sure to avoid a common gardening mistake that could be damaging your lawn.
The Sun
09-07-2025
- Climate
- The Sun
From ‘gray' water to clever planting, gardener's 6 tips to beat hosepipe ban set to hit millions without breaking rules
AFTER the warmest ever June and driest spring for 132 years, temperatures are creeping up yet again. The first hosepipe ban from Yorkshire Water comes into place tomorrow – and it's highly likely more will follow. Breaking the rules could land you a £1,000 fine. But when your garden hits 32C, plants start wilting, can get scorched or stop growing. Sun Gardening Editor Veronica Lorraine has some top tips to beat the ban. EXCEPTIONS: First of all, there are a few gaps in the rules, so check the small print when a ban comes in. For example, the Yorkshire Water ban does not include Blue Badge holders or those people on the company's Priority Services Register or WaterSure tariff, for medical reasons. It also confirmed a hosepipe can be used for watering food crops but not general flowers and plants, and you can water newly laid turf or grass seed for 28 days with a hose. Grass roofs are also not covered, as well as trees that are single stem with no side branches for at least 1.8m above the ground – if planted in the past three planting seasons. If you have got a fixed drip or trickle irrigation system in place, as long as it is not misting into the air and is connected to a metered water supply, you can carry on using it. These are specifically designed to release water slowly along their length and create much more efficient watering. If you have just bought a hot tub, you can use a hose to fill it for the first time, but after that, only by bucket. My garden was looking so old and the patio was broken - now it's a lush oasis and people can't believe how little I spent GREY WATER: This is waste water from daily routines such as showers, baths and laundry. You can re-use it in your outside space. If you have a condenser tumble dryer, it could be a secret weapon against water shortages. You could even shower with a bucket alongside you to collect water. And if you don't fancy trekking up and down stairs with buckets after a bath, there are pumps you can buy that go from the bath, out of the window and down to a container. 4 CLEVER WATERING: Do not water in the daytime. It is a waste as the water will evaporate. Aim for early morning before it gets too hot or when the sun has gone down. But first thing is best as slugs move around at night and love the damp soil. Aim directly for the roots and give them a really good soaking once or twice a week rather than a light water daily. Count to between 15 and 20 seconds as you water each plant, to make sure it soaks down to the roots. 4 RAIN STORAGE: It may be too late this time, but if you have the space, a water butt connected to your downward gutter pipe is a great asset. A stand-alone butt also does a great job. There are all sorts on the market, including those that attach to walls. They are great for smaller gardens but if you do not have room, leave a few buckets around to catch any rain. You could also invest in self-watering plant spikes that you fill with water and stick in your planters. They release water slowly, reducing the need for a daily soak. TACTICAL PLANTING: There are a lot of plants that do better in drought than others, so it may be worth buying some for the future. Agapanthus, pittosporum, lavender, wisteria, jasmine, fig trees and Fatsia Japonicas do well. Plus, there are geums, sedums, achillea, hardy geraniums, rosemary, salvias and ornamental grasses. Succulents such as sempervivum and echeveria store water in their leaves so are good for dry conditions. And remember to mulch your plants, which means covering the soil around them with a thin layer of protective material that will keep in moisture. This could be wood chippings, well-rotted manure, gravel, shredded leaves or special garden mulch. Also, group your pots together to give them a bit of shade. LAWNS: There is no shame in letting your lawn go brown rather than wasting huge amounts of time and water trying to keep it fresh and green. If it is healthy, it will cope and go back to green once the rain comes. Also, let it grow longer for a while as this helps retain water and keep the soil moist. If you must mow, raise the cutting level.
CTV News
03-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- CTV News
Making your baskets and containers shine
Atlantic Watch The folks from Bloom Greenhouse share tips to make your mid-season flowers go from drab to fab.
