Expert Advice on Home Improvement

Sherry asks, “When I read about organic gardening, I see a lot of references to neem oil. What is it, and how do I use it in my garden?”

Neem oil is made from the seeds of the neem tree (Azadirachta indica) and is a popular choice for organic insect and disease control. Read on to find out more. Read in full.

Over by the fence, I’ve got a little compost pile, and this year I decided to challenge myself to compost everything I can. See, sometimes I get in a hurry, and before I realize it I’ve tossed the cutting board scraps into the trash. I try to remember, but I’m a person who likes systems, and this was a project in need of a system. Read on to find out my simple solution. Read in full.

Beth asks, “What can I put in my compost pile?“

If your compost pile is heating up properly and the items are chopped or shredded, you can put all kinds of things in there. Here’s a list of compostable items, including a few that might surprise you. Read on to find out more. Read in full.

Instead of using synthetic or toxic chemicals, organic gardeners create a natural garden ecosystem that gives more to the earth than it takes away. More than anything else, organic gardening requires altering your mindset about gardening. Here are three basic concepts to get you started on your path to an organic garden. Read in full.

These days, we’re all looking for ways to reduce our carbon footprint and to contribute to a greener planet. But where does one begin? Going green doesn’t need to be overwhelming – in fact, once you adopt a few eco-friendly habits, you’ll find yourself naturally gravitating toward green choices. Read on for six easy resolutions toward a greener life for your yard and garden. Read in full.

The end of the holiday season doesn’t have to be the end of your holiday decorations. Christmas trees, wreaths, and garland may be a bit dried out, but they can still serve a purpose in the garden. Rather than throwing your holiday decorations in the trash, consider recycling them in the garden and allowing them to return to the earth in a natural way. Here are some tips and ideas for recycling your holiday greenery. Read in full.

Instead of sending your leaves to the landfill, consider recycling them to feed the plants in your garden. Leaves are a great, free source of nutrients and insulation for your garden if used correctly, and you can keep your lawn neat while still allowing nature to work its magic. Read on to find out how to recycle the leaves in your yard. Read in full.

Madison asks, “Why are many fertilizer bags labeled ‘phosphorus free’? I thought phosphorus was one of the three important nutrients for plants?”

You’re right that phosphorus is an important nutrient, but fertilizers containing phosphorus are a major source of groundwater contamination. Read more to find out when to use phosphorus in your garden. Read in full.

Composting lawn and garden waste is a great way to obtain organic material for your garden while reducing the environmentally negative aspects of trucking yard waste to the landfill. This DIY compost bin is easy to build and made from pressure treated wood so it will last for many years to come. Read in full.

This eco-friendly home makes use of green landscaping techniques, including native plants, a permeable flagstone patio to allow it to absorb the runoff from the roof, and a water saving irrigation system. Watch the video to learn more. Watch this video.