Used coffee grounds in the compost can wake up that garden Add used coffee grounds, kitchen scraps, and plant debris to the compost pile. Once the materials break down, they can enrich garden soil. March 12, 2022
Want a houseplant with real legs? Consider the spider.Spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum) are very adaptable to household growing conditions and easy to achieve success with March 06, 2022
Planning a home project? Take care of those trees first.If you’re planning to put in a new patio, walk or driveway, or even add a room to the house, make sure to include trees in your plans. March 05, 2022
The measure of a garden? Design, plants that fit the space When you’re planning a garden — whether it’s vegetables or an entire redo of your home landscape — the first step is to take measurements. February 27, 2022
Plotting color combinations in the garden depends on the mood you’re going for Annuals can add a splash of color to the garden, but deciding pairings can be tough. Let a color wheel be your guide. February 26, 2022
Before spring blooms, inspect trees for damageWinter is the best time to examine your trees’ bark and branches and spot signs of damage. February 20, 2022
Yearning for spring? Forcing blossoms while it’s cold may the answerWhile it's still cold, some spring-flowering trees and shrubs are ripe for forcing blossoms indoors. February 19, 2022
When planning a garden, think of the view beyondPlanning a garden requires taking the longer view: If your neighbor has a lovely garden, make sure you can see it through plantings. February 12, 2022
Why snow can be good for your lawn and gardenRather than worry about heavy snow cover, think of it as insulation for your lawn and garden. February 06, 2022
4 ways to prune a shrub, depending on if it needs trimmed or major surgeryThere are different ways to prune a shrub, depending on whether you need to shear it into a shapely form or do major rejuvenation work. Here are tips to help. February 06, 2022
How to start composting: Picking a composter, what not to include and more tipsComposting at home is easy to do by simply finding a discreet spot to pile up landscape waste or purchasing a free-standing plastic composter. February 05, 2022
Best tools for winter pruning in your gardenSelecting the best pruning shears and other pruning tools like a folding saw help keep your plants and garden healthy when pruning in the winter. January 30, 2022
An expert’s guide to caring for houseplants in winterHouseplant care tips for winter, with advice on watering, fertilizing, pruning and how to increase humidity during cold Midwestern weather. January 29, 2022
How to prune dormant shrubs and trees in winterIt's a good idea to prune your trees and shrubs in winter, when the dormant plants won't start new growth. Here are tips on how best to prune. January 23, 2022
How to grow amaryllis bulbs to brighten your winter homeHybrid amaryllis (Hippeastrum) is a readily available tender bulb with large, showy flowers that is easily grown indoors in a container. January 22, 2022
How to treat frozen sidewalks with de-icing products that do the least harm to trees, gardensWhen too much salt accumulates in the soil or reaches sensitive plants and trees, it can be harmful to your garden. Here's which de-icing products do the least damage. January 15, 2022
What to wear to stay warm while working in your garden in winterWearing the right layers of protective clothing will help keep you dry and warm when working on your garden in winter months. January 09, 2022
How to protect garden plants from winter damageChoosing plants that are hardy and can withstand cold temperatures during Chicago winter is important, as is mulching around plants to insulate them. January 08, 2022
How to make plans for a better garden in 2022Gardening resolutions could help both the plants you grow in 2022 and the planet, with composting and other suggestions from Chicago-area garden experts. January 02, 2022
How lack of December snow affects your gardenWithout much snow at the start of winter, gardeners should be on the lookout for deer and rabbit damage and winter burn on evergreens. January 01, 2022