Home & Landscapes

Scientists, conservationists, and gardening experts are encouraging us to treat our gardens, as part of the surrounding natural landscape. They want our gardens to nurture and sustain that landscape for the birds, insects, animals, worms, spiders, butterflies, bees, wasps, crustaceans, fish, fungi, moss, lichen (and more!) that also call this place ‘home’.

This trend includes small efforts to add native plants to our gardens or larger changes that replace highly landscaped and… Read more

No one is invulnerable to cancer. When it comes to reducing their cancer risk, individuals take many steps, including changing their diets and following recommended timelines for various health screenings. However, one important strategy may never occur to the average person Ñ getting oneÕs home tested for radon.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reports that radon accounts for roughly 21,000 deaths from lung cancer each year. In fact, radon is the leading cause of lung cancer… Read more

Exterior renovations consistently top the list of projects that offer maximum return on investment, according to Remodeling magazine’s annual “Cost vs. Value Report.” Siding replacement is a popular exterior renovation and one that can completely transform the look of a home.

Siding comes in a variety of materials, and homeowners can explore the pros, cons and affordability of each to make the most informed decision when replacing their existing siding. Factors to consider apart from… Read more

When shopping for a home, buyers often try to envision themselves living in a given property. Images of family gatherings and holidays may instantly come to mind, but prospective homeowners also may begin to envision changes they would make to a property if they were eventually to call it home.

Changing an existing structure or building an entirely new home on an empty plot of land can be exciting. Such changes typically require excavation, which is a complicated process that may be… Read more

Bring the beauty of your favorite gemstones into the garden and your outdoor living space with the help of jewel-toned plants. Even a pot of these beauties placed on the balcony can provide bold color, vibrancy, and lushness to any space.

Select plants with leaves, flowers, or both in the saturated colors of gemstones like rubies, amethyst, topaz, sapphire, and turquoise. Select plants with colors that complement your home and landscape and will thrive in the growing conditions in… Read more

Boost the beauty and your enjoyment by adding a fountain, birdbath, or other water feature to your balcony, deck, or landscape. This one addition to your outdoor space provides many benefits.

The sound of moving water helps create a sense of peace and relaxation. It is a form of white noise that helps calm the mind and revive your spirit.

It also helps mask noise pollution. Combine water features with strategic screening to create a quiet and private space.

Water is… Read more

Deer are common visitors to landscapes even in urban and suburban areas. Fencing is the most effective way to protect your plants but is not always practical or desirable. Your community may have restrictions on fencing, your budget may not support this option, or you prefer not to hide your plantings behind a fence.

Growing a beautiful garden despite the deer is possible but takes planning, persistence, and flexibility. You must be willing to change strategies as needed to minimize… Read more

As the weather slowly warms up, thoughts of spring cleaning may be accompanied by renovation plans. However, most residential construction requires a building permit and a fee paid to the town: A local check showed construction-related permit fees are based on the number of square feet being created or remodeled, while projects too small to be evaluated by square footage may require paying a standardized minimum fee for… Read more

Whether you want to create a tropical oasis indoors or dress up your décor, plants are the answer.  A few plants set on the floor, hanging from the ceiling, or displayed on a table can beautify any room, boost your mood, and reduce stress.

Select plants suited to the growing conditions and your gardening style. This reduces ongoing maintenance and increases your growing success. If you tend to overwater, look for plants that thrive in moist soil conditions. Grow more drought-tolerant… Read more