Latest articles by Alex David
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How to unclog a yard drain – expert tips for unblocking all 5 types without the need of specialist equipment
Yard drainage can wreak havoc in a yard. This is how to unclog a yard drain, covering every type from catch basins to French drains and dry wells
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How to reuse an old yard hose – 4 ways to repurpose a hose that actually work
Did you know you can turn a broken hose into a brand-new irrigation system?
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What is a soakaway? Experts explain the merits of this clever drainage solution
A soakaway can be just as effective as a French drain – you just have to know where to place it
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Are plastic yard tools toxic? Horticultural experts reveal why you should remove black plastic from your yard
Many plastic kitchen utensils can be toxic, and the same might be true in your yard. I spoke to experts to find out whether or not plastic yard tools are toxic
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How much does it cost to install a heated driveway? Experts reveal the exact cost-per-foot
Heated driveways mean the end of tiresome snow shoveling. However, they're expensive to install. I spoke to experts about how much to spend on a heated driveway
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How to remove icicles – expert steps for removing icicles from gutters, porches, and eaves
They look pretty, but icicles can pose a significant danger to your wallet, your property, and even your health
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Ice melt alternatives debunked – experts reveal which 4 methods never work and the household products that will
Before you cover your yard in vinegar or kosher salt, we reveal the homemade ice melt methods that actually work
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Air plant terrariums vs succulent terrariums – plant experts explain the difference and reveal which is best for your home
Discover how to pick the right one for different spaces in your home
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Experts reveal how to prepare garden tools for spring
Learning how to prepare garden tools for spring is a simple and cheap way to get the most out of a garden. Here's how to restore tools to their 'factory edge'
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Landscaping experts reveal 3 home fixes for waterlogged lawns – you won't find better DIY lawn drainage solutions
A waterlogged lawn can cause a lot of issues, but it's often an expensive problem to solve. I spoke to landscaping experts for 3 cheaper DIY solutions
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6 French drain alternatives – and why a common tree could be a secret solution for waterlogged lawns
French drains are a common way of fixing waterlogged lawns, but they aren't a perfect solution. These 6 French drain alternatives could be smarter choices
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How to apply ice melt – de-icing pros reveal the precise ice-melt-per-yard ratio for frost-free driveways, paths, and decks
Ice melt seems pretty simple, but this winter essential can be harmful to beloved pets. I spoke to experts about how to apply ice melt safely and effectively
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Is it illegal to harvest rainwater? Why collecting water in your yard could be against the law – and how to avoid a fine
It used to be illegal to harvest rainwater in Colorado. The law has since changed, but the penalties could still be expensive
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Should you ever use a griddle attachment on a grill? Chefs advise on a cookout controversy
I asked pro chefs if you should ever use a griddle attachment on a grill. Their responses surprised me – a griddle can be useful, but not in every case
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Closed vs open terrariums – a plant nursery expert explains which is best for your home
Should you keep your terrarium open or closed? Here are the best terrarium tactics
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Terrariums vs houseplants – experts reveal which is best for your home
I spoke to a plant expert about terrariums vs houseplants. She gave me the key differences, and how to work out which is best for your space
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French drains vs trench drains – experts explain the difference, and uncover which is best for your yard
Drainage isn't the most exciting topic, but the wrong choice between French drains vs trench drains can be costly. I spoke to pros about the key differences
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Experts reveal the best way to shovel snow safely and effectively – and how a secret trick with cooking oil can prevent injury
There are few winter chores are dreaded as shoveling snow. I spoke to landscaping experts about the safest ways to shovel snow off paths and driveways
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How much does it cost to install a French drain? Experts reveal the exact cost-per-foot, and the 'hidden' costs the landscaping industry doesn't mention
French drains are a stylish water management system, but they can be expensive. This is exactly how much to spend on a French drain so you don't get swindled
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How to buy a compost bin – expert tips to help you pick a plastic, wood, or tumbler bin for your yard waste
Learning how to buy a compost bin can help you save hundreds of dollars. I spoke to the pros about how to find the very best compost bins
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When to dewinterize your garden – the temperature triggers to mark in your gardening diary, and how to get your yard ready for spring
Keep an eye on the thermometer for these key temperatures; they'll tell you when to get your yard equipment ready
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Where to place a terrarium – 4 perfect spots for terrariums and two dangerous places to always avoid
Learning where to place a terrarium can save you hours of horticultural heartache. I spoke to two terrarium experts about the best places for a terrarium
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French drains vs dry wells – which is best for backyard water management?
You have to consider French drains vs dry wells when sorting our your garden drainage. I spoke to a pro landscaper about which is best for different gardens
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How to prevent algae in a rain barrel – 5 simple steps, and the one error to avoid that could ruin your garden
Algae can turn a rain barrel from a useful container to a stagnant nuisance. Learning how to prevent algae in your rain barrel will help keep your garden clean
