Here’s everything you need to know about how to use insecticidal soap to control insects. This is an effective and organic method for controlling aphids and other soft-bodied insects. Understanding and using insecticidal soaps properly will help you manage pests organically, both indoors and out. As you know, not all pesticides are alike. Some chemicals are more toxic, killing a broad range of species, while others are less toxic and more targeted. Insecticidal soaps are among the more targeted pesticides. They have limited impact on beneficial insects, birds, reptiles, fish, and other wildlife (including humans). By understanding and using insecticidal soaps effectively, you can combat common plant pests while protecting beneficial organisms. Why Use Insecticidal Soap? Break down the name and you see that insecticidal soap is literally a soap that kills insects. Insecticidal soaps offer a safe, effective, less-toxic alternative to harsh chemicals for managing garden and … [Read more...] about Use Insecticidal Soap to Control Insects
How to Install a French Drain
If you have drainage problems in your landscape, here are step-by-step instructions on how to install a French drain. Drainage problems in your yard or on your acreage property can be bothersome—and sometimes dangerous. If you have drainage problems in the landscape, then you’ll want to learn how to install a French drain. Does water puddle around your foundation after a rain? Or perhaps standing water covers your walkway or patio. Drainage problems can lead to more serious damage to house foundations or pavement. Fortunately, it is easy to redirect water. We’ll teach you how to install a French drain and protect your home and landscape from water damage. What is a French Drain? A French drain might sound fancy. But it’s a simple solution to move water from a problem area to a more desirable location. The drain itself is nothing more than a narrow trench lined with gravel and fitted with pipe to move water. One common application of a French drain is along the … [Read more...] about How to Install a French Drain
How to Build a Floating Deck
If you are wondering how to build a floating deck, you’ve come to the right place. A floating deck is an inexpensive, freestanding platform that is surprisingly easy to build. The deck floats just above the ground atop preformed concrete blocks. It is not difficult to build, and it can be installed in most lawn or garden areas. Raising the deck off the ground allows the wood to dry out after rainstorms, helping it to last longer. The simple act of stepping up onto a platform helps establish a sense of place in the landscape. Elevating the floating deck also accommodates unique design elements. In the project described in detail below, we built a deck that cantilevers over a water garden. The floating deck is attractive, and it creates a serene gathering spot where the landscape can be enjoyed. How to Build a Floating Deck: Materials Needed The tools and materials specified below are required to build a floating deck that is 10 feet by 10 feet. Adjust board lengths … [Read more...] about How to Build a Floating Deck
Transform Cabinets with DIY Pull Out Shelves
DIY pull out shelves changed my life. I am only slightly exaggerating here. But seriously, we decided to transform our cabinets in the kitchen and bathroom with DIY pull out shelves. The result has been nothing short of amazing. When we moved into our home five years ago, the kitchen pantry had no shelving. So, we built our own pull out shelves. In our deep cabinets, the new full-extension pull-out shelves allow my family to reach the back of cabinets with ease. The do-it-yourself DIY pull out shelves also make the narrow openings easier to navigate. The shelves now pull ALL THE WAY OUT to bring order to overly deep spaces – like our bathroom cabinets. After years of stretching through the 12-inch opening to reach items at the back, we decided it was time to build pull out shelves. It was one of the smartest DIY projects we ever did. The following steps walk you through the process of building your own DIY pull out shelves. Getting Started on Your Pull-Out Shelves What … [Read more...] about Transform Cabinets with DIY Pull Out Shelves
How to Make Your Own Terrarium
When you make your own terrarium, you create a miniature garden for your home or office. It’s easy, and you will enjoy it for years. You can make your own DIY (do-it-yourself) terrarium using basic gardening supplies and materials from around the house. If you are not familiar with terrariums, think of it as a miniature contained garden. A terrarium is sort of like an aquarium, but for plants! A terrarium is a great addition to any indoor space. It makes a wonderful gift, too. Plus, making your own DIY miniature garden is a fun indoor gardening project when the weather turns cold. What is a Terrarium? A terrarium is a simple garden enclosed in glass or plastic. One benefit of growing plants inside a terrarium is the ability to control the growing environment and adapt it to specific plant materials. A closed terrarium allows you to maintain a humid atmosphere for plants like ferns, polka dot plant, and Venus flytrap. You can also use your DIY terrarium to start … [Read more...] about How to Make Your Own Terrarium
