25 articles
Discover 14 tall plants that thrive in shady yards, from evergreen shrubs to flowering trees. This guide covers mature sizes, USDA zones, and light needs to help you add vertical interest to low-light garden beds.
As summer temperatures rise, homeowners seek effective ways to keep their backyards comfortable. A Bay Area designer shares practical strategies, from installing shade structures and water features to choosing light-colored materials, to create a cooler outdoor oasis.
Renovation experts warn that oversized water features, luxury outdoor kitchens, and large artificial turf areas often exceed homeowners' budgets due to high installation and maintenance costs. They suggest low-water plants, hardscaping, and modular outdoor setups as more practical alternatives. DIY projects involving grading, drainage, or retaining walls over two feet tall should be left to professionals to avoid costly errors.
Real estate professionals identify six common front yard items that can make a home look cluttered and deter buyers. From overplanting to excessive ornaments, these experts offer practical advice for creating a clean, inviting exterior that boosts curb appeal.
Artificial plants can survive outdoors if they are UV-resistant and weatherproof, but experts warn they fade quickly and may harm real plants by blocking light and causing drainage issues. Gardeners suggest using them in containers or paved areas, where they won't interfere with living greenery.
