Firepit Ideas for the Ultimate Backyard Hangout Space

 

Photo source:  Better Homes and Gardens

"Between barbecues, bonfires, and outdoor movie nights, your backyard will undoubtedly host many special moments. Create an outdoor space that's conducive to relaxation and social gatherings alike by adding a built-in firepit to your yard. These firepit ideas can help you achieve the ultimate backyard hangout for you and your loved ones."  Comment from Better Homes and Gardens

So many great ideas for firepits.  At one time, I had a firepit area with a beautiful terracota fireplace, but it was destroyed by the hurricane that hit my house.

Click here to go to the Better Homes and Gardens article.  Check out the great ideas!

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Easy Flowers That Practically Grow Themselves

 

Photo source:  Southern Living

"Whether you’re a new or experienced gardener, sometimes you’re just looking for easy flowers to grow. Colorful flowers all season long not only delight humans, the also attract pollinators such as butterflies and bees.

If you crave color, long bloom times, and flowers you’re not going to have to coddle, there are many annuals and perennials to choose from. The standard advice is that flowers planted in pots, window boxes, and hanging baskets tend to dry out fast at the height of summer, so check them daily during hot, dry spells. Not every gardener wants to face those tasks every day, so we've included a few drought-tolerant options that will do just fine without daily watering."  Comments from Southern Living

Many of my favorites!

Click here to go to the Southern Living article.

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Easy to Grow Annuals for a Cut-Flower Garden

 

Photo source:  Rural Sprout

 

"When it comes to making your living space fresh and inviting, it’s hard to find anything that does the job better than plants. And while I love the creeping tendrils of my philodendron and the fuzzy leaves of my many African violets, I enjoy bringing fresh-cut flowers into my home when it’s summertime."  Comments from Rural Sprout

It is one of the reasons I love growing zinnias!

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Why Southern Grandmothers Sprayed Hydrangeas With Hairspray

 

Photo source:  Southern Living

"Yes, that’s right. Your trusty Aquanet, or more modern equivalent, can be used to sneakily keep hydrangeas looking healthy, full, and alive. When my grandmother, a bonafide amateur florist, told me about the old-fashioned trick, I couldn't quite believe it. But it works!"  Comment from Southern Living

Very interesting!

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Beautiful Greenhouse Ideas for Year-Round Gardening

 

Photo source:  Martha Stewart

"Often, we can only enjoy our favorite flowers, veggies, and herbs for a few months out of the year. However, greenhouses can create a bountiful garden year-round, keeping plants and seedlings cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

There is a wide variety of greenhouse options, from farmhouse-style A-frames to modern geodesic domes. A bonus? They're a special way to spend time outdoors—and grow unique plants—no matter the weather. Here, we’ve gathered some expert-recommended greenhouse ideas that can accommodate a variety of spaces and flora so you can enjoy gardening rain or shine."  Comments from Martha Stewart.com

My favorite greenhouse is the one pictured above, although I would take any of them.

Click here to go to the Martha Stewart.com article.

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