Advice Archive | July 2024 | Homes and Gardens

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July 31st
- 15 things you should never store in your basement – and why
- How to organize an L-shaped kitchen – 6 steps to an efficient workspace
- Can I cut my neighbor's hedge? Legal and real estate experts provide clarity on this often confusing issue
- Best Japanese beetle repellent plants – 7 plants to grow to keep these destructive pests away
- How to wrap kitchen cabinets yourself – to get a fresh look for less
- How to plan a utility room – 7 steps to a well-organized, efficient space
- These are the secrets to cosmos success – discover three key ways to ensure flowers bloom until the first frost
- Are integrated appliances still on trend? Interior designers share their do's and don'ts of designing around appliances
- How to choose between a drip irrigation system and a soaker hose – which is best for watering plants during summer?
July 30th
- Minimalism vs Essentialism – these practices loved by experts will make your life streamlined and meaningful
- The most common HOA watering violations – and how to avoid them in your yard
- 7 cleaning tasks you shouldn't do yourself – and why experts reckon each is best left to them
- 11 essential DIY skills every homeowner should know – according to expert contractors
- Why are my Chinese evergreen leaves turning yellow? Experts reveal why this tropical houseplant may not be happy
- Six reasons to use low VOC paints – experts reveal why they're better for you, your home and the environment
- How to grow bougainvillea in pots and add bold color to your container displays
- What color windows should you choose for your home? 5 on trend shades designers love for creating an easy feature
- 6 ways to add character to a kitchen that has none, according to interior designers
- When to harvest acorn squash – the 3 vital signs of fully-ripe fruit
July 29th
- Trees never to plant in a small backyard – 7 varieties that will overwhelm a limited space
- How to grow passion flowers – for a spectacular and other-worldly flowering climber
- How to sponge paint a room with unique textures and patterns and unleash your inner designer, according to the pros
- When to harvest peaches – identify the optimum time for the sweetest fruits
- As a product tester, I can vouch for these QVC gardening essentials
- 5 signs you may have taken minimalism too far in your lifestyle – professional organizers weigh in
- Is this the best beige paint? Why designers love Stone Hearth by Benjamin Moore
- How to clean an upholstered headboard – 6 steps to a superior sleep environment
July 28th
- Can potting soil catch fire? As temperatures rise, there are fire risks to consider
- 9 sustainable features you should consider for your eco-friendly remodel
- When and how to fertilize eggplants and the best feeds to pick for bumper harvests
- 4 clever ways to stop lawn chairs from leaving dents in your grass
- How to store a garden hose – the best methods and one gimmick I never recommend
- 5 ways to stop your pets from escaping through your home's open doors
- Are roses drought tolerant? Expert advice for growing roses in dry yards
- Best base for a gazebo – landscaping experts reveal their top tips for your garden structures
- What are the best Sherwin-Williams white paints? 6 favorite shades amongst interior designers
July 27th
- Which lawn sprinkler layout is best? Lawn experts have their say on the square vs triangle debate
- What color is Farrow & Ball's Pigeon? Designers weigh in on this 'chameleon' paint color and share their favorite ways to decorate with it
- 8 organizing tips for surviving the summer holidays – keep kids entertained with these easy ideas
- How to propagate aloe vera – expert tips to grow more of this healing houseplant for free
- How much should you spend on a vacuum cleaner? Expert advice to avoid overspending
- Floribunda roses are a gardener's best friend – 3 expert tips to grow these robust and resilient roses
- 7 xeriscaping mistakes to avoid when making your yard drought resilient
- What's the most timeless kitchen hardware? These are the designs that transcend trends, say interior designers
- How to harvest onion seeds – pro tips on technique, timing, and storage
- This once-dated couch color is making a comeback – designers share all on how to bring this retro style into 2024
- How to increase tomato yields – 10 reliable and successful ways to boost your harvests
- How to make the most out of the space on your outdoor clothesline – 6 simple tips
July 26th
- The best smart technology for your bathroom remodel
- Can you (and should you) mix kitchen cabinet hardware? Expert tips on how to nail this eclectic trend
- Does vanilla extract repel mosquitoes? Our entomologists explore the benefits and drawbacks of this all-natural alternative
- Which garden hose spray pattern is best? We reveal the best function for every corner of your yard
- Should you store your glasses facing up or down? Experts share their thoughts
- Looking for a colorful cottage garden plant that pollinators adore? Dianthus flowers are a surefire summer hit
- Weeping fig indoor plant care guide – experts share top tips for these small trees
- These are the most common plumbing mistakes and issues when renovating a house – and how to avoid them
July 25th
- How to stop a hose from leaking at the faucet – easy insider tips from plumbers
- 5 colors to decorate with in July 2024 according to designers, for a summery feel inside the home
- Why damping down a greenhouse is the ‘easiest and most economical' way of reducing temperatures to avoid damaging plants
- 16 things to get rid of in your junk drawer, according to experts
- How to fertilize lantana – for long-lasting rainbow blooms
- How to decorate with Sherwin Williams' Crisp Linen – 'a soft, warm and serene neutral'
- Why is my string of pearls shriveling? Here are the common causes, plus expert tips on how to revive this trailing houseplant
- Should you wash clothes inside out? Experts suggest it makes a difference
- Trees never to plant in a small front yard – 7 varieties to avoid in compact spaces
July 24th
- Who is liable if my neighbor's tree falls in my yard? Legal experts advise
- How to fertilize a monstera – plant experts share how to give this statement houseplant a boost for a luscious indoor jungle
- Should you always paint a ceiling white? Color experts weigh in on this old-school approach
- How to be more ruthless when decluttering – 10 honest tricks to tackle 'doom piles' from expert organizers
- Are glass-fronted kitchen cabinets still on trend? Experts weigh in on whether this classic design is timeless or outdated
- How to prune watermelon plants – an ideal solution for growing the crop in small spaces
- 15 things to never put in the washing machine – and how to clean them instead
- Is it necessary to fertilize wisteria? Feeding these resilient and vigorous climbers can often do more harm than good
July 23rd
- 7 beautiful flowering plants to stake – expert tips to keep blooms and vegetables thriving all summer long
- 10 ingenious ways to keep flies out of a garage
- How to design a juice bar at home – everything you need to create a chic and functional set up
- 4 hacks to clean the inside of your drinking straws – and why keeping them dry is so important
- How to protect your deck from sun damage and keep it in top condition all summer long
- How to grow acorn squash from sowing to harvesting – all you need to know for a great crop
- What should I put in the corner of my kitchen? Interior designers share their favorite ways to fill these tricky spaces
- Looking for long-flowering, low-maintenance container shrubs? Weigela are spectacular pot plants to grow this year
July 22nd
- 6 reasons why your pantry looks cluttered, according to experts in the know
- How to identify tomato hornworms and get rid of these large, highly destructive pests
- Do ultrasonic pest repellents work?
- How to prune a rubber plant – 2 methods for bushier and healthier growth
- 3 ways to transform your patio for summer – to relax and entertain in style
- How to combat scale bugs in your yard – expert advice to manage these sap-sucking pests
- How much does it cost to add a half bathroom? Experts break down the budget
July 21st
- How to decorate with antique textiles – designers share their tips for adding character with old fabrics
- Desert landscaping ideas – 12 design and planting solutions to add structure and shapes to dry gardens
- How to add space without extending your home – it's easier than you think
- ‘Little and often’ is the best way to cut back petunias for neat plants that bloom all summer long
- Should you buy a used kitchen? Experts weigh up the pros and cons
- Is it necessary to fertilize hollyhocks? Experts reveal how best to care for these colorful blooms
- How to harvest lettuce seeds – for a tasty homegrown crop next year
- Can you build a bathroom for under $5k? Interior experts give their cost-saving ideas
- How to prune sunflowers – expert advice for brilliant blooms and healthy plants
July 20th
- Built-in vs freestanding bathroom cabinets – interior designers on how to choose the right design for your space and style
- How to build the perfect practical pantry, according to kitchen design experts
- Best agaves – 10 varieties guaranteed to bring drama to your yard
- How to grow bamboo from cuttings in water – 3 simple steps with expert tips for success
- 7 practical ways to upgrade your curb appeal in a weekend
- Rooting hormone can improve your success with cuttings – discover our expert tips on how to use the different types
- 5 dated kitchen hardware trends that could be bringing down the look of your kitchen
- 6 vegetables you can grow indoors if you don't have a backyard
- Does keeping a bucket of water in a room keep it cool? Experts share their thoughts
July 19th
- What is 'Non-Attachment Theory'? Use this practice to rid your home of unneeded items once and for all
- 8 colors to avoid pairing with black, according to designers
- When and how to harvest celery – to pick stems at the peak of their flavor
- Is hot or cold water better for stain removal? A fabric care scientist explains all
- How to deadhead pentas plants – for an even more impressive display of bright blooms
- How to add smart kitchen technology to your home
- How to harvest marigold seeds – a quick and easy guide for fresh flowers next year
- How to add color to a kitchen with neutral cabinets – without making your cabinetry feel misplaced
- These are the secrets to rose success in summer – garden experts reveal how to care for your rose plants this season
July 18th
- How to find good contractors for your next project
- Is it safe to drink from a hose? A doctor warns it could leave you feeling unwell
- What are the best materials for kitchen cabinets? 6 designer-approved options to have on your radar
- How to get rid of spider mites on houseplants – 5 expert methods
- Is waxing floors a good idea? Experts explain the pros and cons
- How to care for Knock Out roses – 5 key factors for healthy plants and vibrant blooms
- 5 cleaning myths that will damage your countertops – and what to do instead
- How to propagate camellias – professional advice for successful plant cuttings
- How to get rid of alder leaf beetles – 3 ways to protect your plants from these leaf eaters
July 17th
- How to buy pruners – 5 golden rules from a pruner product tester
- Should you unplug your air fryer when not in use?
- I’m a gardening expert, and even though it’s not a tool, this is the one piece of kit I couldn’t do without
- Hummingbird feeder cameras are this year's must-have wildlife gadget – to help you capture professional shots of these miniature birds
- What not to prune in summer – 8 plants to never trim during high season or risk losing them forever
July 16th
- What is red thread? How to spot and prevent this common lawn disease
- Martha Stewart’s handheld pruners are reduced for a limited time – I tried them in my garden, and I can see why the top reviews don't lie
- I swear by these 3 things to calm unsightly cables and messy wires – my home has never looked better or tidier
- How to pair red and beige – 5 expert ideas for this on trend color combination
- 5 things making your kitchen smell bad – and how to fix them
- Best plants for a sunny patio – 5 sun-loving container plants
- This bathroom organizer solved all of my kitchen storage headaches – here's how it will make your space better, too
July 15th
- When and how to harvest elephant garlic, along with how to cure and store the large bulbs
- How to help garden birds in summer – 5 expert tips for providing food and safety
- Tired of sagging couch cushions? These 6 ingenious Amazon finds will make yours look expensive and new again
- How to buy a lawnmower – 5 golden rules from a gardening product tester
- I just found the best way to make the most of small kitchen storage – and it doesn't involve drills, screws, or a whole new kitchen
- 8 drought-tolerant front yard ideas – experts reveal their favorite water-smart design tips
- When and how to fertilize weigela – timing is critical when feeding this colorful shrub
- I bought Martha Stewart’s stackable drawer organizers 5 times – these are all the neat ways I’m using them
- Couch color trends 2025 – 7 favorite shades amongst designers
July 14th
- The Ultimate Dorm Room Checklist − 7 Essential Categories to Make the Space Your Own
- How to stop compost smelling bad – 5 expert methods to keep unpleasant odors away
- How to organize a corner cabinet – 5 tricks to make awkward storage work harder
- Do calla lilies multiply? Experts reveal how to grow more of these elegant flowers for free
- 7 things people with organized kitchen cabinets always do – and what they buy from Amazon
- What to do if your garden hose is stuck on the faucet – insider tips to fix the problem
- How to mow long grass − 5 steps to cutting back overgrown grass without damaging it
- How to make a home smell expensive – 4 tried-and-tested fragrance hacks from experts
- Skunk-repellent plants – what to grow to banish these critters from your yard
- 'One of the most significant public gardens of the 21st century' – what the High Line can teach us about resilient gardening
July 13th
- How to prepare a guest bedroom for summer – 6 steps to ensure the perfect night's sleep
- This tough and resilient hydrangea will thrive even during scorching summer months, and as a gardener I highly recommend it
- 5 natural ways to stop whiteflies from ruining your veg crops
- How to get rid of ivy on a fence – experts share 3 steps to remove this persistent climber for good
- Where to place a gazebo? Construction experts reveal the best spots
- Farrow & Ball's Hague Blue is an endlessly popular dark paint color – here's how designers decorate with it
- How and when to harvest spaghetti squash – signs of ripeness you need to know
- Drought tolerant shade plants – 8 ideas to enliven tricky areas in dry gardens
July 12th
- Birdhouses are my new obsession, and these are the very best designs – tailored to every type of bird
- What is firescaping? 7 vital things you need to know to protect your yard from wildfires
- Do interior designers shop at Amazon? Yes, and here are the products they swear by
- Should you hire a project manager for your home reno or do it yourself?
- How to get rid of kudzu bugs – experts share top tips for removing these plant feeders from your yard
- This native flower is a favorite of florists and for good reason – learn how to grow lisianthus and enjoy spectacular summertime blooms
- How to make DIY washing machine cleaner – 3 solutions to common washer problems
- I'm an expert gardener, and these are the products you need to improve your success with indoor and outdoor plants
July 11th
- 5 kitchen hardware mistakes interior designers say homeowners always make, and how to fix them
- Steam cleaners vs carpet cleaners – which is best for your floors?
- What you need to know about selling your home in summer – top real estate agents explain
- How to grow broccolini at home – for substantial harvests of gourmet vegetables
- Best plants for a shady patio – 5 dazzling plants to brighten up your outdoor living area
- 5 organizing purchases the pros always regret – and what to buy instead
July 10th
- These are the best colors to paint your kitchen depending on its orientation, according to color experts
- Can you put vinyl flooring over tile? Contractors share their thoughts
- What should you do with your kitchen or bathroom renovation waste?
- Is black matte hardware still on trend? Experts discuss whether it's outdated or classic
- Decluttering golden rules – 7 laws the pros never break
- These are the secrets to jasmine success – experts reveal 3 tips for your fragrant climbers
- Colorado potato beetles can ‘truly decimate’ crops – here are the signs to look for and how to combat these destructive pests
July 9th
- Shutters vs blinds – what you need to know to dress windows beautifully and practically
- How to clean the agitator in a washing machine – laundry pros share their secrets
- How to garden with hayfever – expert advice on alleviating this common allergy from a lifelong gardener
- Designers agree you should avoid decorating with these colors during summer – and what to use instead
- This ingenious mini pet nozzle is the perfect vacuum attachment to combat pet fur
- I'm a product tester, and I only recommend these 12 garden essentials in Walmart's Summer Sale
- How to clean cork – 5 expert cleaning tips to keep surfaces spotless
- 5 easy renovation ideas that don't require any power tools or heavy lifting
- Why you should prune pepper plants for healthier crops and bigger yields
- Is it necessary to fertilize crepe myrtle? Experts reveal how best to care for this colorful shrub
- 6 Home Fragrance Mistakes to Avoid When Scenting a Space
July 8th
- They're among the most difficult perennials to grow – but we have the expert tips you need for success
- What are the best colors for outdoor furniture? Here’s what the experts think
- How to grow nicotiana – 3 expert tips for showstopping flowering tobacco plants
- Should you use vintage pieces in your bathroom? Interior designers on the best way to decorate with pre-loved furniture and decor
- How to garden on an east-facing balcony – 3 recommendations from gardening experts
- How to design a home that stays cool – 5 essential tips that will save you money long-term
- What is a soaker hose? Discover how these hoses offer an easy and efficient way to hydrate plants
July 7th
- 5 signs your plants are suffering from heat stress – and expert tips to help revive them again
- I've tested expandable garden hoses for years and think they're only worth buying if you have this specific type of yard
- Family room vs living room – what's the difference and why you might want to have both
- 9 climbing plants to transform your house with sensational blooms
- I follow these 12 simple steps every time I clean up after dinner – my kitchen stays spotless
- Best part-shade annuals – professional gardeners recommend fast-growing flowers and foliage for shady borders
- Can I grow a tree from a branch? Expert advice on raising a tree from a cutting
- 7 plants to deadhead in July – for an abundant display of blooms to enjoy
July 6th
- Why does my garden hose smell like rotten eggs? How to fix an odorous gardening issue
- How to create a backyard spa – 6 ways to transform your outdoor space into a relaxing retreat
- Decorator's Address Book: 15 of the best places to shop for lighting as suggested by interior designers
- How to grow ground cover roses – expert advice for abundant low-growing flowers
- Best hibiscus varieties – for large, tropical blooms no matter your climate
- I never throw these 7 kitchen items away – this is how I reuse and repurpose them
- 6 summer lawn care tasks – help your grass survive extreme weather and high-traffic
July 5th
- Why is my lawnmower smoking? Four common problems and simple fixes
- How to prune zucchini – why this often overlooked task is essential if you want the biggest yields
- Why isn't my hoya flowering? Pro tips to encourage beautiful blooms
- 7 plants to fertilize in July – expert advice for healthy plants and bountiful blooms throughout summer
- How to choose the best hardware for your kitchen – expert tips for a cohesive scheme
July 4th
- 7 signs that your home needs an urgent renovation or update
- How to keep drinks cool without a cooler – 3 inexpensive, foolproof methods
- What colors go with olive green? 7 pairings designers recommend for this sophisticated and calming hue
- Everything you need to know about LG's CordZero™ Series
- How to grow and care for eryngiums – 3 expert tips for these drought-tolerant, sculptural summer flowers
- Can roses grow in the shade? Experts discuss whether this classic flowering plant can tolerate shady situations
- Want to grow your own Christmas dinner? It's not too late to plant these vegetables and have homegrown crops in time for December
- How to clean up after the 4th of July – hosting and cleaning experts share their secrets
- What color hardware goes with a white kitchen? Interior designers share their favorite combinations
July 3rd
- 5 reasons why I prefer a cordless vacuum – is it time to ditch the power cable?
- Are my garden power tools too noisy? Expert advice on noise regulations to help you avoid upsetting your neighbors
- Why are my bean plants turning yellow? The common culprits revealed and expert remedies for healthy crops
- Container gardening for beginners – how to create pots of long-lasting color for every season
- Where should you place an air purifier in a bedroom? 4 positions that never fail
- Designer profile: Leo Bertacchini
- How to grow catmint – expert advice for this fragrant perennial
July 2nd
- How to shop Walmart like an interiors editor – my top 6 tips for finding stylish products and securing unbeatable deals
- How to get rid of aphids on houseplants – 4 natural methods
- 7 garage color ideas – plus expert advice on how to include them in your exterior scheme
- How to maintain a garden hose in summer – 5 ways to keep it in pristine condition
- 3 reasons to buy a self-emptying vacuum – cut your chore time in half
- How to grow bigger tomatoes by perfecting your feeding and pruning regimes
July 1st
- Interior designers share their favorite color combinations for summer – 5 uplifting pairings to use throughout the home
- Where should you place an air purifier in a bathroom?
- How to grow and care for star jasmine – 5 expert tips to keep this fragrant climber blooming for longer
- 7 Common Household Items That Are Polluting Your Home's Air and How to Fix It Today
- What color curtains are best for summer? Designers reveal 7 key shades
- 7 plants to prune in July – and expert tips for how to trim properly for better, bigger blooms
- How to organize a kitchen for the 4th of July – hosting and organizing experts share their time-saving hacks
- Weeding was slow and tough until I started using a hori hori knife – now I'm a convert to this versatile Japanese tool that makes light work of garden chores