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Time Business News
26-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Time Business News
The Ultimate Guide to Stunning Landscaping for Your Home
The Ultimate Guide to Stunning Landscaping for Your Home Creating Your Dream Outdoor Space Transforming your yard into a serene getaway or a space that's both practical and beautiful is no small feat. That's where Home The Spruce comes in. Whether you're tackling this on your own or working with a pro, this comprehensive guide brings you the best landscaping tips, user reviews, and real-life examples to inspire your design. The Art and Science of Landscaping Why does landscaping matter? It's not just about having a nice-looking yard. Proper landscaping enhances your home's aesthetic appeal, improves property value, and creates an environment where you can relax and reconnect with nature. Major Benefits to Consider Elevated Aesthetic Value Landscaping adds texture, color, and personality to your outdoor spaces. It's a powerful way to show off your home's unique style. Eco-Conscious Design Thoughtfully planned landscapes often incorporate native plants and sustainable features like rainwater harvesting for irrigation. Health and Wellness Benefits Access to green spaces has been shown to lower stress levels and boost mood. Your backyard can become your personal sanctuary. Increase Property Value A beautifully landscaped yard can increase your home's resale value by as much as 15%, according to real estate experts. Read on to discover creative landscaping ideas and tips to bring your vision to life. Expert Landscaping Ideas to Elevate Your Yard (With Roger Morph) Roger Morph, one of the leading voices in modern landscaping, believes every project should be a balance of creative vision and practical application. Here's how you can adopt his strategies for your own home. Add Functional Paths and Walkways Gravel or stone can create charming paths at a reasonable cost. Consider stepping stones for a whimsical, fairytale-like look. Create Height and Texture with Trees and Shrubs Weeping Willows and Maple Trees for long-term impact. and for long-term impact. Boxwood Shrubs are great for clean, trimmed hedges. are great for clean, trimmed hedges. Incorporate flowering species for pops of color in spring. Build a Cozy, Multi-Functional Patio A patio isn't just a space; it's an experience. Use durable materials like slate or brick, and invest in comfortable outdoor furniture. Review Highlight 'Roger's advice changed our perspective on layering plants. The new levels in our landscape add dimension and make it feel so inviting' – Amanda K. (Rate 4.8/5 on Home The Spruce) Landscaping Trend Alert Every year brings exciting new gardening and landscaping ideas. Here are some of the latest trends for 2025: Vertical Gardens Limited space? Not a problem! Vertical gardens can transform plain walls into luscious green features. Native Plants Using indigenous vegetation not only looks stunning but also supports local wildlife like bees and butterflies. Edible Landscapes Why not combine beauty with utility? Plant vegetables, fruits, or herbs to create an edible yard! Water Features Think stunning koi ponds or minimalist fountains to immediately wow guests entering your garden. Landscaping Your Home on a Budget Investing in landscaping doesn't have to break the bank. Some resourceful tips: DIY Projects Upcycle furniture for planters. Use trellises to define spaces in your yard. Repurpose broken tiles for mosaic stepping stones. Affordable Plant Choices Local nurseries often offer discounts on plants native to your climate. Grow from seeds or cuttings instead of buying mature plants. Cost-Saving Recommendations from Users 'I revamped my yard with just $200 thanks to the DIY hacks on Home The Spruce. Great ideas for budget-conscious homeowners!' – Robin S. Harmonize Architecture and Nature with Kdarchitects The firm Kdarchitects specializes in creating outdoor spaces where architecture seamlessly meets nature. Their recent work combines sustainability with cutting-edge designs. Signature Elements Rooftop Gardens: Dual-purpose spaces for relaxation and insulation benefits. Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Flow: Wide decks or sliding glass doors make the transition from your home to your garden effortless. Eco Pools: Retain heat naturally while cutting down on operating costs. Kdarchitects' philosophy is that landscaping isn't just about beautifying a space. It's about enhancing how families and communities interact with their surroundings. The Architect's Tip 'Your landscape can be an extension of your lifestyle. Think beyond aesthetics and focus on function,' says a leading designer at Kdarchitects. FAQs on Landscaping Q1. What's the best time of year to start landscaping? Spring and early fall are best for planting, as it gives plants time to establish before extreme weather. Q2. How can I maintain my yard without spending too much time? Choose low-maintenance plants, install an irrigation system, and mulch your soil to reduce weeds. Q3. Are professional landscapers worth the cost? For large projects or complex designs, hiring a landscaper saves time and ensures quality results. However, small updates can often be done DIY. Q4. What's the average cost of renovating a backyard? Cost varies but can range from $2,000 for basic-level updates to $50,000+ for luxury designs. Budget-wise alternatives exist, such as following resources like Home The Spruce for tips. Q5. Can landscaping really improve my home's value? Yes! A well-maintained yard makes a home more attractive to buyers and can significantly boost resale value. Final Thoughts Landscaping is both an art and a science, and it holds the power to transform not just your outdoor space but your entire living experience. Follow landscaping icons like Roger Morph and tap into the wealth of ideas on platforms like Home The Spruce to shape a yard you'll cherish. Happy landscaping! TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Tom's Guide
19-05-2025
- General
- Tom's Guide
Banish dandelions on your lawn by pouring this free liquid on it — no chemicals needed
Summer is almost here, and the perfect time to get outdoors and enjoy the warm weather. And if you take pride in your pristine green lawn, there's nothing more unsightly than dandelions. Not only do these weeds quickly take over your lawn, ruining your lush grass, but are notoriously tricky to remove due to its large central taproot. What's more, any nearby plants or flower beds will be at risk of smothering, and will struggle to survive. And while it may be tempting to get out the commercial weed killers, these harsh chemicals can often damage or kill your grass — which is the last thing you need. Luckily, there is one top tip to banish weeds from your lawn that won't harm the grass. What's more, it's natural, doesn't require strong chemicals, and completely free! So what is this 'miracle' dandelion killer? It's so simple. Gardening experts at The Spruce suggest pouring boiling water on weeds to prevent them from growing. Essentially, this will send the plant into thermal shock that will stunt its growth, and eventually kill invasive dandelions. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. Ideally, you should apply boiling water only to the dandelions that you wish to remove, and avoid any new plantings nearby. It's recommended to reapply boiling water every seven to 10 days to ensure the taproot is killed — and there is no risk of new growth. More importantly, always use a kettle with a spout to avoid burning yourself when pouring the water. Alternatively, you could use gardening trowels or specific dandelion weeding tools to dig out the taproot. Handy weeding tools like this Grampa's Weeder are designed with a claw design, to easily get rid of weeds without the back-breaking, manual labor. This weeding tool isn't cheap, but it saves you from having to bend down to dig up weeds from your yard. And it worked very well in my testing, saving me from unnecessary back pain. The 4-claw design can get rid of weeds easily on soft soil. Essentially, dandelions are weeds that grow rapidly in unwanted places. Weeds compete with plants and other crops for nutrients in soil, water and sunlight, and can also provide a safe place for garden pests to thrive. There are three main types of weeds: annual, perennial and tough weeds. Annuals are usually spread around the yard through seeds, but have weaker roots — making them easier to remove. Perennials are more difficult to get rid of as they spread through their roots as well as by seed, while tough weeds are extremely aggressive and invasive, such as Japanese Knotweed, Brambles and Ivy.
The Sun
12-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Sun
B&M is selling a £7 buy that adds privacy to your garden this summer – it helps shield you from the sun too
SOAKING up the sun in your garden is a perfect way to enjoy the good weather. And thanks to this B&M buy, you can give yourself some added privacy while lounging outside. 3 This budget-friendly item can also help to shield you from the sun, making it ideal for longer stints in the soaring temperatures. So whether you're enjoying a meal al fresco or simply panning out on your lounger, this buy may be for you. B&M's three metre sail shade is currently available for just £7, reduced from £10. According to manufacturers, this item helps you to "relax in the shade". It is described as "perfect shelter for patios, gardens, or other outdoor areas". The shade is easy to install and can be fixed to walls, trees, fences, and posts using the ropes included. It can also be easily cleaned using a damp wipe before being left to dry naturally. According to the experts at The Spruce, "hanging a sail shade or two" can be the perfect way to add privacy to your garden. "If your next door neighbour's house has an extra story that looks down into your backyard, consider hanging a shade sail to protect you from harsh rays and lookie-loos," they explained. And with warm temperatures continuing into May before the summer, this item is also ideal for shading your outdoor area from the sun's harsh rays. The Range launch HUGE summer sale for the bank holiday weekend with a playhouse, inflatable pool with slide & table sets all slashed by up to half price And shoppers can save big time by opting for the B&M version as another three metre sail shade will set you back £15 from B&Q. These sail shades are ideal for use in smaller outdoor spaces or gardens. It can also be used on outdoor terraces, patios, and balconies. This item provides a less cluttered or bulky alternative to a traditional parasol. A Home Bargains buy is said to add a touch of glamour to your garden. Another item from the bargain retailer is perfect for attracting birds to your space. A £3 buy from B&M is can also help to add privacy to your garden this summer. Another garden light from the store is described as having a "cute" twist. And shoppers can also pick up a £9.99 novelty decor buy that adds character to flowerbeds. A £7 gardening gadget is also available from Home Bargains and is guaranteed to transform your lawn. 3 3
Scottish Sun
04-05-2025
- General
- Scottish Sun
Cheap £7 Waitrose gadget can help keep insects from your garden – and it keeps you cool at the same time
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) THERE'S no better feeling that lounging in your garden and soaking up the sun. However, pesky insects can often ruin this relaxing atmosphere, but don't worry. 2 A simple trick can save you from bug bites when lounging in your garden this summer (stock image) Credit: Getty A handy item can help to repel pests whilst simultaneously keeping you cool in the summer sun. According to experts at The Spruce, a simple step will keep wasps, mosquitoes, and every other flying insect away. They explained that mosquitoes aren't "the most agile insect" and can easily be skewed off course mid-air. "Use that to your advantage by pointing a fan in their direction," the pros suggested. Read More On Pest Control RATS OUT I'm a pest control pro - my tips for setting up mice traps & what to do for rats 'Utilising a fan is very effective as mosquitoes are not very good fliers and avoid the moving air." And of course, adding a fan to your outdoor set up will keep you cool in the warm weather. You can pick up a Three-Inch Rechargeable Hand Held Fan from Waitrose for just £6.99. This item is USB powered and can be used when stationary or on the go. It comes with a "handy little dock stand" for propping it up while in use. The fan also features a safety to prevent the device from overcharging. 'These miracle bags should be in every home,' says mum who created a cheap hack to prevent flies from entering your home The airflow created by a fan disrupts an insect's ability to navigate and land. It can also disperse carbon dioxide, which mosquitoes use to locate hosts. And since the wind from a fan helps to cool you down, this reduces the factors that attract mosquitoes, like sweat and body heat. Placing fans near windows, doors, or other entry points can help to create a barrier that makes it difficult for insects to enter your home. You can also use soap and tights to repel flies from your home this summer. Tips for keeping pests from your garden Plant companion plants such as peppermint to repel rats. Place Garden Netting Pest Barrier, over your flowerbeds. Fill open-top containers with beer and place in soil to repel slugs. Spray plants with Neem Oil, to repel ants, flies, and spiders. Dust your flowerbeds with Diatomaceous Earth. Mix 1 tablespoon dish soap, 10 drops peppermint oil, and 4 cups water and spray on flowerbeds. Place eggshells around your plants to protect from slugs and snails. A budget-friendly hack can help to banish slugs and snails from your garden. You can also use a £1.40 household item to deter ants from entering your home. A 49p hack helps to keep wasps from your garden, but you'll want to act soon. Another trick prevents squirrels from digging up your garden and all you need is a kitchen staple. And common storage mistakes may be attracting rodents to your garden shed.
03-05-2025
- Entertainment
A beginners guide to growing your own herbs at home
'GMA' is celebrating National Herb Day with Caroline Utz from 'The Spruce' by sharing some tips for beginners to grow your own herbs at home.
