Clean concrete bird baths weekly in hot weather, more often in shady spots or if algae is a problem. To keep the bath safe for bird visitors, take a wire brush and scrape the bath clean, using just a little soap if it's really needed.

If you started dahlias and tuberous begonias indoors, you can transplant them outdoors once all danger of frost is past and the soil has warmed.

Planting in raised beds offers many benefits. Drainage is improved; the soil warms up faster in spring; you can focus your soil-building efforts in the growing area; compaction is minimized since you don't walk in the beds; and the amount of ...

As vegetable seedlings begin to emerge, thin them to the spacing recommended on the seed packet so plants grow strong and healthy. If left unthinned, they will be stunted because of competition for light, water, and nutrients.

If you travel often, are pressed for time, or just want to make life easier, consider using self-watering pots and containers. These use a self-regulating system to pull water from a reservoir to keep soil moist. You'll still need to fill the ...

Use container plants to create focal points in your landscape. Containers can direct your eye from one point in the garden to the next. By placing a planter near the street curb and one near the front door, your guests are clearly directed to your...