{ "version": "https://jsonfeed.org/version/1", "user_comment": "This feed allows you to read the posts from this site in any feed reader that supports the JSON Feed format. To add this feed to your reader, copy the following URL -- https://goodtobehomemag.com/category/home/outdoors-gardening/feed/json/ -- and add it your reader.", "home_page_url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/category/home/outdoors-gardening/", "feed_url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/category/home/outdoors-gardening/feed/json/", "title": "Good to Be Home", "description": "Good to Be Home Magazine", "items": [ { "id": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/outdoors-gardening/what-to-do-about-wasps/", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/outdoors-gardening/what-to-do-about-wasps/", "title": "What to Do About Wasps", "content_html": "

The post What to Do About Wasps appeared first on Good to Be Home.

\n", "content_text": "The post What to Do About Wasps appeared first on Good to Be Home.", "date_published": "2026-08-31T08:00:47+00:00", "date_modified": "2026-08-25T20:24:00+00:00", "author": { "name": "jshaw", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/author/jshaw/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/82c9132115b5cb74c8d4fb20cf990f4e3fb8822fa552fdc3e362ead755a6b041?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "tags": [ "Bugs", "Garden", "Outdoors", "Pest Control", "Wasps", "Yard", "Home", "Outdoors & Gardening" ], "summary": "There are some safe and effective ways to eliminate these harmful insects." }, { "id": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/outdoors-gardening/watering-dos-and-donts/", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/outdoors-gardening/watering-dos-and-donts/", "title": "Watering Dos and Don\u2019ts", "content_html": "

While indoor comforts may perfectly capture the essence of home, it may be a well-tended landscape that truly makes you feel proud of your personal property. Care for your lawn and garden diligently, and its healthy plant life will surround your house with vibrant natural splendor\u2014and potentially even add value to your home.

\n

But if you fail to nurture these areas correctly, especially when it comes to watering, you can actually do more harm than good (and the wilting, discolored results will speak for themselves). Refresh your yard-hydrating knowledge with this guide to common mistakes homeowners make, and learn some more beneficial alternatives.

\n

DON\u2019T: Hesitate to seek help

\n
\"\"
\n

 

\n

Underwatering can obviously lead to dry patches in your grass and crunchy, faded plant life, but how much should you actually be watering? Truthfully, this largely depends on your local climate, the species of plant you\u2019re working with, and the season. So for guidance, consider speaking with a local landscaper or gardening center associate.

\n

Take photographs so the expert can identify the variety of plants on your property, including your lawn, trees, and flowers. From there, they can provide exact watering recommendations as well as advice on other factors, such as disease and pests, that could be impacting its health. For additional information on healthy tree watering, you may want to consult an arborist.

\n

DO: Water fully

\n

While your specific grass may have its own unique needs, the general rule is that most lawns need one to one and a half inches of water per week. Drench it deeply once or twice weekly\u2014and, if you own an irrigation system, set its schedule to suit such timing. Also verify that the moisture penetrates at least six to eight inches into the turf\u2019s dirt each time, which will support healthy roots better than light, frequent waterings. For accuracy, use a soil moisture meter or even a simple trowel to gauge how thoroughly you drench the turf each session.

\n

As for the plants in your garden, consider keeping tabs in a spreadsheet or notebook on how often unique species need moisture, particularly in mixed garden beds that host a variety of different flora, then adjust various sprinklers throughout your yard so every species gets a full drink each week. If you don\u2019t have irrigation installed, refer to your notes daily to determine when and where precisely to water.

\n

DON\u2019T: Overdo it

\n
\"\"
\n

 

\n

Conversely, you\u2019ll want to avoid overwatering your lawn and garden, even if you live in a dry climate. In fact, this is especially dangerous in hot, dry areas because most native plant life isn\u2019t suited to heavy dampness.

\n

Numerous consequences can arise from overzealous watering. For instance, it can lead to shallow root development and, due to settling moisture, invite pests and diseases, making it potentially just as lethal as neglecting your plants altogether. Not to mention, it\u2019s just downright wasteful. To also protect yourself from any water-overuse fees, be sure to check your local guidelines since watering may be limited\u2014or even prohibited\u2014due to local restrictions or droughts.

\n

DO: Time it accordingly

\n

When you water is just as important as how much you dispense. Opt for early-morning sessions, which are ideal because temperatures are typically cooler and the wind is calmer, potentially minimizing waste. In other words, low sunlight and breezes will give hydration time to settle deep into the soil or be absorbed by leaves rather than simply evaporating away. This timing also allows the dirt to dry before evening, reducing the risk of plant diseases that can arise in dark, wet soil.

\n

Try to stay consistent with your timing as well. Altering your watering habits frequently can actually damage certain plants, particularly flowering varieties and edible ones. However, you may need to revisit your irrigation system\u2019s schedule or turn it off temporarily during rainy periods.

\n

DON\u2019T: Neglect tech issues

\n
\"\"
\n

 

\n

Finally, while irrigation machinery certainly makes watering easier, these systems are by no means faultless. Should they fail to provide the right amount of moisture in the correct increments, your lawn and garden can suffer the consequences. So to ensure that they\u2019re working properly, look out for common signs of defects, including unexplained dry spots, water pooling in certain areas, unusual noises coming from the device, and poor pressure.

\n

If you notice these issues or are simply curious why certain plants just aren\u2019t holding up, contact an irrigation repair specialist. Maintaining an effective watering system\u2014whether it\u2019s your manual work or devices doing it for you\u2014is one of the most important methods for ensuring that your lawn and garden receive all the hydration it needs . . . no more, no less.

\n

The post Watering Dos and Don\u2019ts appeared first on Good to Be Home.

\n", "content_text": "While indoor comforts may perfectly capture the essence of home, it may be a well-tended landscape that truly makes you feel proud of your personal property. Care for your lawn and garden diligently, and its healthy plant life will surround your house with vibrant natural splendor\u2014and potentially even add value to your home.\nBut if you fail to nurture these areas correctly, especially when it comes to watering, you can actually do more harm than good (and the wilting, discolored results will speak for themselves). Refresh your yard-hydrating knowledge with this guide to common mistakes homeowners make, and learn some more beneficial alternatives.\nDON\u2019T: Hesitate to seek help\n\n \nUnderwatering can obviously lead to dry patches in your grass and crunchy, faded plant life, but how much should you actually be watering? Truthfully, this largely depends on your local climate, the species of plant you\u2019re working with, and the season. So for guidance, consider speaking with a local landscaper or gardening center associate.\nTake photographs so the expert can identify the variety of plants on your property, including your lawn, trees, and flowers. From there, they can provide exact watering recommendations as well as advice on other factors, such as disease and pests, that could be impacting its health. For additional information on healthy tree watering, you may want to consult an arborist.\nDO: Water fully\nWhile your specific grass may have its own unique needs, the general rule is that most lawns need one to one and a half inches of water per week. Drench it deeply once or twice weekly\u2014and, if you own an irrigation system, set its schedule to suit such timing. Also verify that the moisture penetrates at least six to eight inches into the turf\u2019s dirt each time, which will support healthy roots better than light, frequent waterings. For accuracy, use a soil moisture meter or even a simple trowel to gauge how thoroughly you drench the turf each session.\nAs for the plants in your garden, consider keeping tabs in a spreadsheet or notebook on how often unique species need moisture, particularly in mixed garden beds that host a variety of different flora, then adjust various sprinklers throughout your yard so every species gets a full drink each week. If you don\u2019t have irrigation installed, refer to your notes daily to determine when and where precisely to water.\nDON\u2019T: Overdo it\n\n \nConversely, you\u2019ll want to avoid overwatering your lawn and garden, even if you live in a dry climate. In fact, this is especially dangerous in hot, dry areas because most native plant life isn\u2019t suited to heavy dampness.\nNumerous consequences can arise from overzealous watering. For instance, it can lead to shallow root development and, due to settling moisture, invite pests and diseases, making it potentially just as lethal as neglecting your plants altogether. Not to mention, it\u2019s just downright wasteful. To also protect yourself from any water-overuse fees, be sure to check your local guidelines since watering may be limited\u2014or even prohibited\u2014due to local restrictions or droughts.\nDO: Time it accordingly\nWhen you water is just as important as how much you dispense. Opt for early-morning sessions, which are ideal because temperatures are typically cooler and the wind is calmer, potentially minimizing waste. In other words, low sunlight and breezes will give hydration time to settle deep into the soil or be absorbed by leaves rather than simply evaporating away. This timing also allows the dirt to dry before evening, reducing the risk of plant diseases that can arise in dark, wet soil.\nTry to stay consistent with your timing as well. Altering your watering habits frequently can actually damage certain plants, particularly flowering varieties and edible ones. However, you may need to revisit your irrigation system\u2019s schedule or turn it off temporarily during rainy periods.\nDON\u2019T: Neglect tech issues\n\n \nFinally, while irrigation machinery certainly makes watering easier, these systems are by no means faultless. Should they fail to provide the right amount of moisture in the correct increments, your lawn and garden can suffer the consequences. So to ensure that they\u2019re working properly, look out for common signs of defects, including unexplained dry spots, water pooling in certain areas, unusual noises coming from the device, and poor pressure.\nIf you notice these issues or are simply curious why certain plants just aren\u2019t holding up, contact an irrigation repair specialist. Maintaining an effective watering system\u2014whether it\u2019s your manual work or devices doing it for you\u2014is one of the most important methods for ensuring that your lawn and garden receive all the hydration it needs . . . no more, no less.\nThe post Watering Dos and Don\u2019ts appeared first on Good to Be Home.", "date_published": "2026-08-10T08:00:03+00:00", "date_modified": "2026-08-05T17:06:21+00:00", "author": { "name": "strexler", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/author/strexler/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/bfdad1d0f4bb8763ecd0c9f9672e8f2d9b9ed5aa5d22def1bf6d02656996176c?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2026/07/watering-featured.jpg", "tags": [ "Garden", "Landscaping", "Lawn", "Summer", "Water", "Watering", "Home", "Outdoors & Gardening" ], "summary": "Learn how you can better hydrate your lawn and garden." }, { "id": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/outdoors-gardening/savvy-gardening-hacks/", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/outdoors-gardening/savvy-gardening-hacks/", "title": "Savvy Gardening Hacks", "content_html": "

The post Savvy Gardening Hacks appeared first on Good to Be Home.

\n", "content_text": "The post Savvy Gardening Hacks appeared first on Good to Be Home.", "date_published": "2026-05-14T08:00:31+00:00", "date_modified": "2026-04-20T17:59:01+00:00", "author": { "name": "jshaw", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/author/jshaw/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/82c9132115b5cb74c8d4fb20cf990f4e3fb8822fa552fdc3e362ead755a6b041?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "tags": [ "Garden", "Landscaping", "Lawn", "Summer", "Outdoors & Gardening" ], "summary": "Discover how to ease planting and caring for your outdoor spaces." }, { "id": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/outdoors-gardening/cool-your-curb-appeal-with-these-heat-resistant-landscaping-ideas/", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/outdoors-gardening/cool-your-curb-appeal-with-these-heat-resistant-landscaping-ideas/", "title": "Cool Your Curb Appeal with These Heat-Resistant Landscaping Ideas", "content_html": "

The post Cool Your Curb Appeal with These Heat-Resistant Landscaping Ideas appeared first on Good to Be Home.

\n", "content_text": "The post Cool Your Curb Appeal with These Heat-Resistant Landscaping Ideas appeared first on Good to Be Home.", "date_published": "2026-05-12T08:00:16+00:00", "date_modified": "2026-05-11T19:04:40+00:00", "author": { "name": "jshaw", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/author/jshaw/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/82c9132115b5cb74c8d4fb20cf990f4e3fb8822fa552fdc3e362ead755a6b041?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "tags": [ "Garden", "Grass", "Heat", "Landscape", "Real Estate", "Save Water", "Summer", "Water", "Outdoors & Gardening" ], "summary": "While summer can challenge yards and gardens, these swaps can help make them durable." }, { "id": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/home-improvement/simple-pest-prevention-tips/", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/home-improvement/simple-pest-prevention-tips/", "title": "Simple Pest-Prevention Tips", "content_html": "

The post Simple Pest-Prevention Tips appeared first on Good to Be Home.

\n", "content_text": "The post Simple Pest-Prevention Tips appeared first on Good to Be Home.", "date_published": "2026-05-06T08:00:03+00:00", "date_modified": "2026-04-20T17:33:40+00:00", "author": { "name": "jshaw", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/author/jshaw/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/82c9132115b5cb74c8d4fb20cf990f4e3fb8822fa552fdc3e362ead755a6b041?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "tags": [ "Bugs", "Home Advice", "Home Tips", "Homeowner", "Pest Control", "Spring", "Cleaning & Organizing", "Home Improvement", "Outdoors & Gardening" ], "summary": "Follow these five steps to keep bugs out year-round." }, { "id": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/guard-your-home-against-mosquitoes/", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/guard-your-home-against-mosquitoes/", "title": "Guard Your Home Against Mosquitoes", "content_html": "

The post Guard Your Home Against Mosquitoes appeared first on Good to Be Home.

\n", "content_text": "The post Guard Your Home Against Mosquitoes appeared first on Good to Be Home.", "date_published": "2026-03-12T08:00:16+00:00", "date_modified": "2026-02-11T15:54:21+00:00", "author": { "name": "strexler", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/author/strexler/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/bfdad1d0f4bb8763ecd0c9f9672e8f2d9b9ed5aa5d22def1bf6d02656996176c?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "tags": [ "Bugs", "Gardening", "Mosquitoes", "Outdoor Activities", "Pest Control", "Spring", "Home", "Outdoors & Gardening" ], "summary": "Four tools to help keep your holiday focal point in one piece while protecting your feline." }, { "id": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/outdoors-gardening/dirt-free-gardening/", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/outdoors-gardening/dirt-free-gardening/", "title": "Dirt-Free Gardening", "content_html": "

The post Dirt-Free Gardening appeared first on Good to Be Home.

\n", "content_text": "The post Dirt-Free Gardening appeared first on Good to Be Home.", "date_published": "2025-09-24T08:00:28+00:00", "date_modified": "2025-08-19T15:49:52+00:00", "author": { "name": "ajimenez", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/author/ajimenez/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/370fd3ef5b2313c7465c0026a4c2af9d14c7c1f31fb160ddbba3f572f8b74842?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "tags": [ "Container Gardening", "Garden", "Gardening", "Gardening Tips", "Home", "Outdoors & Gardening" ], "summary": "This guide can help you set up a thriving, water-conserving hydroponic garden." }, { "id": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/outdoors-gardening/summer-to-fall-maintenance-for-your-yard/", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/outdoors-gardening/summer-to-fall-maintenance-for-your-yard/", "title": "Summer-to-Fall Maintenance for Your Yard", "content_html": "

The post Summer-to-Fall Maintenance for Your Yard appeared first on Good to Be Home.

\n", "content_text": "The post Summer-to-Fall Maintenance for Your Yard appeared first on Good to Be Home.", "date_published": "2025-09-02T08:00:33+00:00", "date_modified": "2025-08-28T18:33:43+00:00", "author": { "name": "ajimenez", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/author/ajimenez/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/370fd3ef5b2313c7465c0026a4c2af9d14c7c1f31fb160ddbba3f572f8b74842?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "tags": [ "Home Maintenance", "Homeowner", "Outdoor maintenance", "Summer End", "Yard Work", "Outdoors & Gardening", "Summer" ], "summary": "Learn the steps to keep your yard healthy, tidy, and welcoming through the fall season and beyond." }, { "id": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/cleaning-organizing/safeguard-your-outdoor-items/", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/cleaning-organizing/safeguard-your-outdoor-items/", "title": "Safeguard Your Outdoor Items", "content_html": "

The post Safeguard Your Outdoor Items appeared first on Good to Be Home.

\n", "content_text": "The post Safeguard Your Outdoor Items appeared first on Good to Be Home.", "date_published": "2025-08-27T08:00:37+00:00", "date_modified": "2025-08-19T15:10:58+00:00", "author": { "name": "ajimenez", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/author/ajimenez/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/370fd3ef5b2313c7465c0026a4c2af9d14c7c1f31fb160ddbba3f572f8b74842?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "tags": [ "Cleaning", "Maintenance", "Outdoor Furniture", "Summer End", "Cleaning & Organizing", "Outdoors & Gardening" ], "summary": "Protect your furniture and grill from the elements, ensuring that they stay in great condition all year long." }, { "id": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/outdoors-gardening/how-to-build-a-stone-firepit/", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/outdoors-gardening/how-to-build-a-stone-firepit/", "title": "How to Build a Stone Firepit", "content_html": "

The post How to Build a Stone Firepit appeared first on Good to Be Home.

\n", "content_text": "The post How to Build a Stone Firepit appeared first on Good to Be Home.", "date_published": "2025-08-25T08:00:17+00:00", "date_modified": "2025-05-14T19:45:46+00:00", "author": { "name": "ajimenez", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/author/ajimenez/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/370fd3ef5b2313c7465c0026a4c2af9d14c7c1f31fb160ddbba3f572f8b74842?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "tags": [ "DIY", "Fall", "Firepit", "Outdoors", "Outdoors & Gardening" ], "summary": "With a few materials and simple steps, you can create the perfect backyard gathering spot for cool nights." }, { "id": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/outdoors-gardening/low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas-that-boost-curb-appeal/", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/outdoors-gardening/low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas-that-boost-curb-appeal/", "title": "Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas That Boost Curb Appeal", "content_html": "

The post Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas That Boost Curb Appeal appeared first on Good to Be Home.

\n", "content_text": "The post Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas That Boost Curb Appeal appeared first on Good to Be Home.", "date_published": "2025-08-08T08:00:28+00:00", "date_modified": "2025-07-31T12:41:09+00:00", "author": { "name": "ajimenez", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/author/ajimenez/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/370fd3ef5b2313c7465c0026a4c2af9d14c7c1f31fb160ddbba3f572f8b74842?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "tags": [ "Curb Appeal", "Homeowner", "Homeownership", "Landscape", "Landscaping", "Real Estate", "Buying & Selling", "Outdoors & Gardening" ], "summary": "These ideas prove you don\u2019t need to be a master gardener to have a beautiful, eye-catching yard." }, { "id": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/outdoors-gardening/preserve-your-summer-harvest/", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/outdoors-gardening/preserve-your-summer-harvest/", "title": "Preserve Your Summer Harvest", "content_html": "

The post Preserve Your Summer Harvest appeared first on Good to Be Home.

\n", "content_text": "The post Preserve Your Summer Harvest appeared first on Good to Be Home.", "date_published": "2025-08-04T08:00:54+00:00", "date_modified": "2025-06-30T18:56:20+00:00", "author": { "name": "Jessica Carlin", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/author/jcarlin/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/74c03c3be14b43c665f748a584a3d1dea5193958532ad4bcd82b3c248d55e094?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "tags": [ "Garden", "Gardening", "Gardening Tips", "Harvest", "Outdoors & Gardening", "Summer" ], "summary": "Discover tactics to help you enjoy your seasonal fruits, veggies, and herbs longer." }, { "id": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/outdoors-gardening/backyard-essentials-to-beat-the-heat/", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/outdoors-gardening/backyard-essentials-to-beat-the-heat/", "title": "Backyard Essentials to Beat the Heat", "content_html": "

The post Backyard Essentials to Beat the Heat appeared first on Good to Be Home.

\n", "content_text": "The post Backyard Essentials to Beat the Heat appeared first on Good to Be Home.", "date_published": "2025-07-07T08:00:34+00:00", "date_modified": "2025-06-30T19:48:58+00:00", "author": { "name": "Jessica Carlin", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/author/jcarlin/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/74c03c3be14b43c665f748a584a3d1dea5193958532ad4bcd82b3c248d55e094?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "tags": [ "Backyard", "Cool", "Heat", "Hosting", "Summer", "Outdoors & Gardening" ], "summary": "Check out the best products for creating a cool outdoor ambience at home." }, { "id": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/outdoors-gardening/creating-a-captivating-container-garden/", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/outdoors-gardening/creating-a-captivating-container-garden/", "title": "Creating a Captivating Container Garden", "content_html": "

The post Creating a Captivating Container Garden appeared first on Good to Be Home.

\n", "content_text": "The post Creating a Captivating Container Garden appeared first on Good to Be Home.", "date_published": "2025-06-20T08:00:30+00:00", "date_modified": "2025-05-01T15:38:51+00:00", "author": { "name": "ajimenez", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/author/ajimenez/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/370fd3ef5b2313c7465c0026a4c2af9d14c7c1f31fb160ddbba3f572f8b74842?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "tags": [ "Gardening", "Gardening Tips", "Summer", "Summer Activities", "Summer Tips", "Outdoors & Gardening" ], "summary": "Planting in containers can make it easy to grow a summer garden, even with limited time or space." }, { "id": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/outdoors-gardening/uplift-your-home-with-hydrangeas/", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/home/outdoors-gardening/uplift-your-home-with-hydrangeas/", "title": "Uplift Your Home with Hydrangeas", "content_html": "

The post Uplift Your Home with Hydrangeas appeared first on Good to Be Home.

\n", "content_text": "The post Uplift Your Home with Hydrangeas appeared first on Good to Be Home.", "date_published": "2025-06-18T08:00:23+00:00", "date_modified": "2025-03-24T20:09:22+00:00", "author": { "name": "ajimenez", "url": "https://goodtobehomemag.com/author/ajimenez/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/370fd3ef5b2313c7465c0026a4c2af9d14c7c1f31fb160ddbba3f572f8b74842?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "tags": [ "Curb Appeal", "Flower", "Garden", "House Plant", "Hydrangea", "Outdoors & Gardening" ], "summary": "Learn how to grow and care for these flowering shrubs." } ] }