Expert Advice on Home Improvement

Julie A. asks: “Our outdoor potted ivy plant has holes in the leaves. How do we solve this problem?” Read in full.

You don’t have to buy expensive herbicides to kill weeds in the cracks of a driveway or sidewalk. Simply pouring boiling water on the weeds will do the trick without toxic side effects. Watch this video.

To keep mosquitoes away naturally, put celery in a juicer and rub or spray the liquid on your skin. Another natural option that works even better are products made from lemon eucalyptus oil such as Repel plant based insect repellent. Watch this video.

Confused by the vast number of weed control products crowding the aisles of your garden center? Find out what you need to know to prevent and control weeds in your yard, as well as which products are right for you. Read in full.

As promised, I wanted to tell you about Danny’s use of celery juicing in an upcoming Thinking Green segment. Believe it or not, this really works. I know because I tested it. This is all based on a study done in Thailand using celery extract to deter mosquitoes. Nonetheless, I have to admit it was pretty funny watching Danny smear celery juice on his arm. Read in full.

Gardening enthusiast Julie Day shares some innovative solutions to rid your lawn and garden of pesky fleas. Read in full.

BJ asks, “We had beautiful hostas for two years under our shade trees. For the most part, they are now nonexistent – the few that continue to come up have stunted leaves. I’ve wondered if they are intolerant of the heat, since I’m at the warmest end of the recommended planting zones (zone 10)?” Read in full.

The Formosan subterranean termite (Coptotermes formosanus) strikes fear in the hearts of homeowners, particularly residents of Hawaii and the southern United States. According to a report by the Department of Agriculture, it is one of the most destructive pests in the country. Each year over $1 billion is spent in the U.S. for preventative and remedial treatment and to repair damage caused by Formosan termites. Read in full.

Organic Landscaper Rachel DeToro offers these tips for natural pest management. Nesting boxes and food sources will keep birds nearby and they in turn will keep insects under control. Watch this video.