Plant a Drought-Tolerant Grass

One effective way to drought-proof your lawn is by choosing drought-tolerant grass varieties. In warm climates, grasses like Zoysia, Bermuda, and Buffalo thrive on minimal water. For cooler regions, Tall Fescue and Fine Fescue are resilient to both drought and cold. These grasses are perfect for dry spells and require less water than other varieties.

The post 8 Must-Know Tips to Drought-Proof Your Lawn appeared first on Family Handyman.

These universal pruners can be used on everything from harvesting fresh flowers and veggies to trimming rogue stems and dead wood. During testing, our team appreciated the fact that they were easy to grip and produced clean cuts. And the best part? They are super affordable. Here’s everything you need to know about the Fiskars pruners before adding them to your cart.

What are Fiskars Pruners?

When it comes to scissors, Fiskars is a household name. The brand is known for its quality crafting tools and school supplies as well as its line of pruners and loppers. In other words, the maker of these Fiskars pruners knows a thing or two about powerful and precise blades.

The Fiskars pruners feature a cushioned grip for safety and comfort. They measure 8.75-inches long and have a 5.25-inch handle spread. Theyre equipped with a curved bypass blade made from alloy steel and have a one-inch cutting capacity. They are suitable for right- or left-handed use and have replaceable blades.

EMIKO FRANZEN FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

$24.99 at Amazon

$29.98 at Lowe's

We Tried It

Fiskars Bypass Pruning Shears

These budget-friendly pruning shears feature a cushioned grip, replaceable blades and can be used either right- or left-handed.

$24.99 at Amazon

$29.98 at Lowe's

Fiskars Pruners Features

Left-handed Compatibility

According to our testers, the locking mechanism on these Fiskars pruners is positioned to be used either left- or right-handed. This worked out well for our testers as one of them is right-handed while the other is left-handed.

Replaceable Blade

The manufacturer’s website states that the blade on this set can be sharpened for long-lasting value. Or you can simply replace the blade for continual cutting performance.

Softgrip Touch Points

The upper handle, where you rest your thumb, has a cushioned grip. The bottom handle is plastic.

How We Tested It

During testing, our team focused on cut quality, the amount of force required and the consistency of the pruners’ performance across all plant types. They were also be on the lookout for signs of hand fatigue as they evaluated the pruners’ ergonomics and overall comfort.

Backyard Testing

After noting the Fiskars pruners weight, measurements and callout features, associate product testers Sheri KazandDylan Fischer took these Fiskars pruners into Sheri’s backyard for testing. They had gathered three sizes of wooden dowels, three sizes of deadwood branches and stems and three sizes of greenwood branches and stems, including cherry wood and an asparagus plant.

Before they began cutting, our team noticed that the handle spread didn’t fully open without a little help. “The spring is a little sticky and doesn’t spread entirely on its own,” notes Kaz. Although they noted that the Fiskars pruners were easy to grip, the sticky handle led to initial concerns about performance and hand fatigue.

Quarter-Inch Stems

The first test was with a series of 0.25-inch stems. Both Sheri and Dylan attempted to cut through a green tree branch and wood dowel. The Friskars pruners cut through the green tree branch with no issue whatsoever and left a nice, clean cut. Next up was the dowel. Sheri needed two hands to complete the cut while Dylan was able to do it with one hand. The wood was a bit squished at the end, but overall it was a neat cut.

Half-Inch Stems

Our testers moved onto 0.5-inch stems for the next test. The pruners easily cut through a piece of green cherrywood. However, Dylan had to use two hands to cut through the dowel and the deadwood, calling the task “pretty difficult.” Moreover, the ends of the dowel were squished rather than clean cut.

Three-Quarter-Inch Stems

For the final test, Dylan used the pruners to cut through a 0.75-inch dowel, deadwood branch and asparagus. He was unable to cut through the dowel or the deadwood, but had less trouble cutting through the asparagus. “It cut through easily, but we were struggling a bit to fully fit the stem in between the blades,” he explains. “The packaging claims it can fit 1-inch branches and stems, but we’re not entirely sure how true that is.”

After cutting a variety of stems, our team agreed that although the Fiskars pruners feel a bit stiff and tight compared to others they tested, they are a good value. “Because the spring action is so tight, it could cause fatigue after constant use, but for the price and performance, we recommend the Fiskars pruners as the best budget buy,” says Kaz.

Pros

• Produces clean cuts
• Affordable
• Replaceable blades
• Cushioned grip
• Can be used right- or left-handed

Cons

• Spring is stiff and uncomfortable to use

Why You Should Trust Us

AtFamily Handyman, our goal is to help you find quality products that will enhance your life and your space. In order to help you shop with confidence, we personally test the products we recommend. From electric pruning shears to pruning saws, our expert product testers have gotten up close and personal with hundreds of items.

For this article, our product testing team spent 45 hours examining and testing 11 pruners. They performed 14 tests on each pair and collected roughly 300 data points overall. Out of the 11 we tested, only 7 made our list of recommended pruners, including these Fiskars pruners. We will never recommend a product we don’t love regardless of a brand’s popularity or price point.

FAQ

Where are Fiskars pruners made?

Many Fiskars products are designed, manufactured and tested in Finland. Others are produced in the United States.

Can you sharpen Fiskars pruners?

Yes. The blade on these Fiskars pruners can be sharpened or replaced.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

The Fiskars pruners are a beloved product with over 37,200 five-star ratings on Amazon. Overall, users are impressed by the pruners’ quality, value and performance.

Amazon user Lokiamus calls these pruners a good quality tool that will deliver on performance. “Ive been using them for a few weeks now and have been cutting through a variety of woody, and non-woody stems measuring maybe an 1 inch or less diameter with ease: small/underdeveloped tree branches (elm, bougainvillea & crape myrtle), vines (smilax/greenbriar/wisteria/morning glory) and any other undesirable growths that have sprung up,” they write. “I have small hands and weak wrists so I appreciate the light weight and not having to apply a great amount of force when cutting.”

And while our testers found the spring on these pruners stiff and uncomfortable, Lokiamus insists that they “function smoothly like shock absorbers on a car.”

Gretty’s Gadgets Galore, another verified Amazon user, calls the Fiskars pruners the perfect pruning shears for any gardener. Gretty especially appreciates their cutting power, comfort, durability, precision and value. “In summary, the Fiskars Bypass Pruning Shears are an excellent choice for both amateur and experienced gardeners. They combine cutting efficiency, comfort, and durability in a way that makes gardening tasks more enjoyable and less of a chore,” writes Gretty. “I highly recommend these shears to anyone looking to upgrade their gardening tools. Five stars!”

And LaLa credits these pruners for their abundant tomato harvest. “I came across a YouTube video suggesting I aggressively prune tomato plants to make more fruit grow. Mine weren’t doing well this season, so it was the perfect time to experiment,” writes LaLa. “I bought these clippers and went to tomato town. I clipped all the leaves and branches that didn’t have any fruit. (That was a lot!) Within one week, I had more tomatoes growing than I did all summer. I found these shears easy to use with one hand (I have small-ish hands). The blades don’t seem to be dull after using these for a couple months. Very happy with these and with my yield.”

Fiskars Pruners vs. Felco 2 Pruners

In addition to the Fiskars pruners, Kaz and Fisher also tested the Swiss-made Felco 2 pruners. Both pruners are easy and comfortable to use and provided clean cuts. When tested on branches and stems 0.5-inches or thicker, both pruners required the use of two hands and a considerable amount of force. In fact, neither set of pruners were able to cut through our testers’ 0.75-inch dowel or deadwood branch.

While both pruners performed similarly, they are priced quite differently. The Fiskars pruners have an MSRP of $23.50, making them our tester’s top budget pick. The Felco 2 pruners retail for around $70.

Final Verdict

According to our testers, the Fiskars pruners are a great choice for gardeners on a budget. They offer a solid performance at an affordable price and you can’t beat that.

Where to Buy the Fiskars Pruners

The Fiskars pruners are available on Amazonand Lowe’s. They have an MSRP of $23.50 but we have seen the price range from about $15 to $30.

EMIKO FRANZEN FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

$24.99 at Amazon

$29.98 at Lowe's

We Tried It

Fiskars Bypass Pruning Shears

Because of the price and performance, our testers recommend the Fiskars bypass pruners as the best budget buy.

$24.99 at Amazon

$29.98 at Lowe's

The post Fiskars Pruners Review: We Tried It and Got the Most Bang for Our Buck appeared first on Family Handyman.

I have used dozens of leaf blowers in my day and can confidently say I’ve experienced a wide range of performances from blowers. I started my leaf blower journey with the classic handheld Stihl BG86C blower. Since then, I have personally owned and tested five handheld gas blowers, nine backpack leaf blowers (both battery and gas), three handheld corded electric leaf blowers, and 11 handheld battery-powered blowers.

What Is the Battery-Powered Toro Leaf Blower?

When Toro designed their new battery leaf blower, we were shocked to see how much thought went into the design and the performance. You can easily tell that the team that pulled this blower together included people like me, who have used dozens of blowers and knew that Toro needed to push the envelope to stay competitive in the battery-powered leaf blower space.

I admit that I was skeptical when I first received this blower. Toro, a brand with an amazing reputation for providing some of the most powerful zero-turn mowers, has long been known for its success with golf course management tools and a wide range of commercial products. However, they have only recently begun to dip their toes in the battery-powered space, starting with their classic lawnmowers, which I have come to know and love.

TYLER GRAHAM FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

$349 at Lowe's

$349 at Acme Tools

I Tried It

Toro Flex-Force 60-volt Max 900-CFM 165-MPH Battery Handheld Leaf Blower

$349 at Lowe's

$349 at Acme Tools

Toro Leaf Blower Features

The blower boasts a whopping 900 CFM (cubic feet per minute) and 165 MPH air speed, both of which are at the top of the game in the leaf blower world. You can reach the maximum airspeed by using the “Turbo” button, which is meant for temporary blasts of air that help remove wet leaves and grass from surfaces.

This blower also comes with a concentrated nozzle, which helps further focus air and increase overall air speed for targeted clean-up. The Toro battery-powered blower also comes with several easy-to-control measures, including a textured grip, a well-balanced body, variable speed and cruise control so that you don’t tire out your hand, and an aggressive design that helps hold the blower down and forward.

You can use the 60-volt battery on the Toro leaf blower on other 60V Max products from Toro, which saves you money on buying new batteries for these tools in the long run. As Toro continues to build out the 60V Max lineup, this can result in huge savings for the average homeowner who doesn’t have to buy a new battery with each tool.

How I Tested the Toro Leaf Blower

Assembly

The new Toro battery-powered leaf blower was very simple to put together. It comes in two or three pieces that easily snap together. I quickly snapped the nozzle onto the base of the blower and excitedly rushed out the door to start eviscerating leaves.

Job Site Test (Commercial Landscaping)

I used the Toro battery-powered blower on the job site first. Having recently re-started a landscaping company, I had about eight lawns back-to-back on my first day with the Toro blower. I was excited to see how it would perform relative to other handheld battery blowers. My first stop was mowing my friend Chase’s house. He lives in a nice neighborhood with lots that are about acre or less.

This presented the ideal opportunity to see how the Toro blower would perform on a typical lawn. Another positive of using the battery-powered Toro blower is that Chase has two small kids that I knew napped at various points throughout the day. My gas-powered backpack blower could wake the dead with its high noise levels, so having an electric tool was great for making sure I could maneuver around their home without waking the kids.

I will also caution that most handheld battery leaf blowers aren’t used for commercial landscaping purposes. They aren’t designed to last all day, and I knew that going into this round of testing. Other blowers, including electric ones, are designed to go with you on the job site. Toro designed this blower for residential homeowners looking to crush leaves and debris in their backyard, put the battery back on the charger and get on with their life. That doesn’t mean I am not going to push the blower to its limits and use it however I can.

Home Test

I used the Toro on my yard after the first time mowed again after a week straight of rainfall here in middle Tennessee. The grass clippings were still a bit moist. If you have ever used a leaf blower after mowing a moist lawn, you will understand that this situation is headache-inducing. Wet grass sticks to concrete like nothing you have ever seen. In order to get it off, you generally have to either wait until it dries, use a push broom, or have a blower that can somehow lift it off of the concrete.

Most leaf blowers put out about 400-500 CFM. Even some of the most powerful backpack leaf blowers will put out 700 CFM or so of air. At 900 CFM, the Toro 60V Max may be one of the most powerful handheld leaf blowers I have ever seen. The combination of tremendous air volume output with wind speeds of 165 MPH means that very few blowers on the market come close to this amount of power.

So naturally, I had to use this on the famous wet grass clippings to see how it would do. It was an absolute demolition. The leaf blower removed almost every blade of grass from the concrete driveway. I was so impressed that I wanted to ring the doorbell and tell my friend all about it. I have never seen a blower, especially a handheld battery-powered leaf blower, push this much air and perform so well.

Blowing Heavy Debris

I set this blower back in the trailer and moved on to the next house. At the next job, I was looking at a garden bed that had been washed out with water and spread mulch all over the lawn and sidewalk leading up to the front door. The mulch was a shredded hardwood mulch and was mostly dry by this point. Before I mowed the yard, this needed to be cleaned up. It presented a perfect opportunity to give the Toro 60V blower a chance to run wild by blowing mulch in the grass (which is notoriously difficult) and pushing it across a sidewalk.

The blower accomplished both of these. Moving mulch across concrete was a breeze, and I was shocked to see how easily it lifted the mulch out of the thick, long grass and placed it back into the garden bed.

I moved onto the third house of the day, which was just like the first one. The grass was slightly dryer, and the clippings blasted back into the grass easily. At this point, I was texting my wife, telling her I couldn’t believe it.

As a second reminder, this blower was not designed for professional landscapers in the same way that gas-powered leaf blowers are. Those can run all day because you can keep buying and pouring gas into the blower for as long as you need. Toro’s new blower obviously requires you to recharge the batteries.

Long-Term Performance

In my personal use of this blower around my house, which seems to be more and more neglected the more I work on other people’s lawns, I continued to be impressed with the Toro leaf blower. In the course of my normal weekly lawn maintenance, I found the blower to have consistent, extremely powerful performance.

One downside I noticed relatively early is that when you use the turbo button off and on, there is a noticeable drain on the battery life. I expected extremely high power to reduce battery life, but I was a bit disappointed to see how quickly it reduced battery life. Without using the turbo button, I still had more than enough battery life to care for my yard (and then some).

As the weeks passed and leaves began falling from the trees, I retested the Toro battery blower once more. Leaves were absolutely light work for this blower. The blower is an absolute bully for drying leaves, easily launching them across my yard. The turbo button was unnecessary, but I had to use it for the sake of science. It was total and absolute destruction of the leaves.

Pros:

• Extremely high power with 900 CFM
• Ergonomic grip with easy maneuvering
• 60V Max battery system used across Toro’s 60V lineup
• Finger-saving cruise control function
• Much quieter than gas blowers
• Turbo button to toggle maximum speed

Cons:

• Battery life drains with Turbo usage
• Fewer tools in Toro’s battery lineup than some other brands

Why You Should Trust Us

As I mentioned at the beginning of this article, I have personally tested dozens, if not hundreds, of leaf blowers, including backpack blowers, corded electric blowers, cordless blowers and gas-powered handheld blowers.

As a landscaper, I developed a unique love for lawn tools after using them every day for years. Now, I spend my days testing lawnmowers, string trimmers, leaf blowers and more. Much of my time is spent using new leaf blowers and comparing them to see which one reigns supreme.

FAQ

How long does a Toro leaf blower last?

The Toro leaf blower advertises a run time of 120 minutesbut this is generally on a low-speed setting under ideal conditions. In my experience, the blower can run for about an hour for typical use around the house, where you may maximize the power for a longer time. Introducing the turbo button drops the run time to about 30 minutes.

How do you use the Toro battery-powered leaf blower?

The Toro battery leaf blower can be easily controlled using the variable speed trigger, which changes the amount of power coming from the battery. It also has a cruise control function that holds a certain speed in place, allowing your hand to relax and hold the blowerno more cramping.

This is a handheld leaf blower, meaning you simply pull the trigger and point it at whatever debris you want to blow away.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

While the Toro 60V Max Battery-Powered Blower is still relatively new, the few who have used it have agreed with meit rocks. One reviewer at Lowe’s felt similarly, calling the blower a “powerhouse” with “the size and weight of the blower working perfectly to balance the blower when used in turbo mode.” Another reviewer at Lowe’s had the same experience as me, using this blower on “1/2 acre of concrete around their farm” and mentioned that the blower “gets rid of those pesky leaves and grass clippings.”

Toro Battery-Powered Leaf Blower vs. Ryobi Battery-Powered Leaf Blower

I’ve had the distinct privilege of using the Toro and Ryobi battery-powered leaf blowers. The Ryobi battery-powered leaf blower is a great blower. Ryobi’s new Whisper series produces quiet, powerful tools that can be found at The Home Depot for a great price. Ryobi’s Whisper series blower was the cat’s meow when it was released. It had one of the highest CFM and MPH ranges on the market and was advertised as the quietest blower.

Times have changed in the last two years. There are a number of other blowers in a similar power range that also exhibit quiet run times. The Toro battery blower simply outguns the Ryobi blower. I have used both side-by-side, and the Toro is the better blower.

Final Verdict

I can confidently say that this is hands down the best combination of price, power and performance on the market. I am excited that Toro will continue to build out their electric lineup with the 60V Max batteries so that I can achieve better cost efficiency in the future. I also think Toro can keep refining their battery technology so that the batteries last longer.

All in all, this blower has set a new standard for power in handheld electric blowers.

Where to Buy the Toro Battery-Powered Leaf Blower

TYLER GRAHAM FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

$349 at Lowe's

$349 at Acme Tools

I Tried It

Toro Flex-Force 60-volt Max 900-CFM 165-MPH Battery Handheld Leaf Blower

$349 at Lowe's

$349 at Acme Tools

You can grab the Toro battery-powered blower from Lowe’s with the battery for just under $350, and you can use the battery with other Toro lawn tools.

The post I Tried the New Battery-Powered Toro Leaf Blower, and Here’s How It Went appeared first on Family Handyman.

Designed for larger hands, these Corona pruners are said to be capable of cutting everything fromflower stems to dead branches. In order to determine whether or not these are worthy of pruning for your garden, our testers put them up against a variety of stems, birchwood dowels and dead wood ranging from 0.25, 0.5 and 0.75 inches wide. Their findings may surprise you. Here’s everything you need to know before adding the Corona pruners to your cart.

What Are the Corona Pruners?

The Corona Classic Cut Pruners measure 8.5-inches long, have a 6.5-inch handle spread and are designed for larger hands. Theyre equipped with a curved bypass blade made from high-carbon steel and have a cutting diameter of up to one inch. A non-slip textured grip and weight of just 12.5-ounces makes them easy to carry around the garden.

EMIKO FRANZEN FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

$29.99 at Ace Hardware

$27.42 at Walmart

$29.99 at Tractor Supply

We Tried It

Corona Classic Cut Pruners

These Corona pruners are supposed to cut branches and stems up to 1-inch in diameter. Our testers insist this is overstated.

$29.99 at Ace Hardware

$27.42 at Walmart

$29.99 at Tractor Supply

Corona Pruners Features

Sharpenable Blade

You can sharpen the blades on these pruners, allowing you to use them year after year.

Wire-Cutting Capabilities

These pruners feature a tiny notch toward the base of the blade designed for wire-cutting.

Lifetime Warranty

Corona guarantees that these pruners will be free of material and workmanship defects for the life of the tool. Just be sure to save your receipt as you will need an original proof of purchase for any and all returns.

How We Tested the Corona Pruners

Associate product testers Sheri KazandDylan Fischer began the testing process by noting the pruners weight, measurements and callout features. Right away, they noted how wide and heavy these pruners felt in their hands. They did point out that the brand’s website indicates that these pruners are made for larger hands. However, they worried that these pruners would quickly cause fatigue.

Once they concluded their observations, our testers took these Corona pruners into Sheris backyard for testing. They gathered three sizes of wooden dowels, deadwood branches and stems in various sizes, and greenwood branches and stems, including cherry wood and an asparagus plant, in various sizes.

Our testers ran the first test with a series of 0.25-inch stems. Unfortunately, the pruners did not meet our testers’ expectations. “It took a surprising amount of force just to cut through the smallest dowel,” says Kaz. “We thought that it would at least cut with good force considering how unwieldy it is.” Moreover, these pruners left jagged edges on the stems.

During the second test, these pruners could not cut the birch dowel without maximum force and several tries. “It took a lot of force and two hands to cut an actual dead branch,” explains Kaz. Once the dowel had been cut, our testers noted that the dowel had been split and the sides had been smooshed.

For the final test, Dylan attempted to cut through a 0.75-inch dowel, deadwood branch and asparagus. He noted good cut quality on the asparagus, but it did not cut through the dowel or deadwood. “It couldn’t cut through deadwood or dowel although the specs says it can cut up to 1 inch,” he explains. “The packaging emphasizes getting the branch into the blades are far as you can. But once you have the handles open all the way it’s near impossible to wrap your hand around it, let alone have enough strength to cut through.”

Pros

• Priced under $40
• Designed for large hands
• Packaging allows you to test it in the store
• Replacement parts offered on the brand’s website
• Lifetime warranty with proof of original purchase

Cons

• Poor cutting quality
• Handles are too wide
• Caused hand fatigue
• Overstated product specs
• Grip is not cushioned

Why You Should Trust Us

AtFamily Handyman, our goal is to help you shop with confidence. This is especially true for gardening tools, which help enhance your home’s curb appeal. Our editors and testers have years of experience testing hundreds of products from pruning saws to tree trimming tools, allowing us to bring you the most comprehensive guides on tree pruners and loppers.

For this series on pruners, our product testers spent a total of 45 hours closely examining 11 pairs, including these Corona pruners. They performed 14 tests on each pair and collected roughly 300 data points overall.

FAQ

How do you sharpen Corona hand pruners?

For best results, Corona recommends using their carbide sharpening tool.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

Out of 50 reviews, these Corona pruners received 4.5 stars. Many purchasers are impressed by how sturdy they feel and their overall ease of use.

One verified buyer is especially appreciative of the high quality construction. “They are built to last with a replaceable blade that’s easy to sharpen…The older pair I have is still functional except that the spring and keeper wore out after 5 years of heavy use. No plastic parts in this model!”

“They are strong, sharp and a little heavier than I expected,” writes another verified buyer. “Very useful for small pruning.”

Corona Pruners vs. Felco 2 Pruners

Our team tested 11 pruners including the Corona Pruners and the Felco 2 pruners. Both pruners are almost identical in size and are rated for large hands. However, our testers found the Corona pruners to be unwieldy and cumbersome.

During testing, our team struggled with the Corona pruners. They required two hands and a lot of force to cut through all of the branches, stems and dead wood. And once cuts were made, they were jagged, smooshed or split the wood. Our team found no reason to recommend the Corona pruners, insisting they are going to cause fatigue more quickly than other pruners.

On the other hand, our testers loved the Swiss-made Felco 2. The Felco 2 features an ergonomic form and contoured finger grips for comfort and safety. Better yet, our team described the Felco 2’s cuts as clean, excellent and like butter. And while they cost around $20-$25 more than the Corona pruners, the Felco 2 is the better choice. Read our full Felco pruners review to learn more and see where to buy them.

Final Verdict

Unfortunately, not every product we test is a winner. Such is the case with these Corona pruners. “These are extremely unwieldy for even Dylan’s hands, and this doesn’t even pay off with any kind of heavy-duty performance,” says Kaz. “The only good thing we can say is that the packaging allows you to test it at the store, so you can at least tell right away if your hand is large enough to hold it.”

Where to Buy the Corona Pruners

These Corona pruners retail for $38.99 and are available at Ace Hardware, Walmart and Tractor Supply Co.

EMIKO FRANZEN FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

$29.99 at Ace Hardware

$27.42 at Walmart

$29.99 at Tractor Supply

We Tried It

Corona Classic Cut Pruners

An unwieldy grip and poor cut quality prevented our testers from recommending these pruners.

$29.99 at Ace Hardware

$27.42 at Walmart

$29.99 at Tractor Supply

The post Corona Pruners Review: We Tried It and Were Not Impressed appeared first on Family Handyman.

What is the Chelsea Flower Show?

The Chelsea Flower Show is put on every year by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS). Most awards are judged by a carefully curated panel of gardening experts. According to the RHS, that panel generally includes “horticulturalists, garden designers, landscape architects, contractors, head gardeners, journalists or writers, and lecturers.” However, visitors also get to vote on certain awards. This practice allows all facets of the community to judge the gardens.

What’s Unique This Year?

This year, one entrant is aiming to present a futuristic garden: one that can talk back to you. Designer Tom Massey, working with Microsoft, plans to enter a garden that uses AI to communicate its needs. His goal is to embed soil sensors for as many of the garden’s needs as possible. These sensors will connect to a computer that can translate the soil readings into plain answers about what the garden needs.

He hopes that this technology can soon be used at a wider scale to usher in a new era of eco-conscious gardening. If gardeners can tell exactly how moist the soil is, they can be even more precise in their watering, for example. If enough people can implement something like this, Massey thinks, there could be a significant positive impact on water use.

AI and Resources

It is important to note here that generative AI consumes vast quantities of resources. So, we should not utilize it frivolously. According to Cindy Gorton, a contributor to Forbes, the data centers that power generative AI use “cooling towers and air mechanisms to dissipate heat, causing up to 9 liters of water to evaporate per kWh of energy used.” Water is already a scarce resource. It is our duty to be mindful of how we consume it and what we are doing to safeguard it. After all, you can’t nourish a garden without water.

Sources

AI Is Accelerating the Loss of Our Scarcest Natural Resource: Water, Forbes, 2024

The post The Next Big Thing In Gardening: Talking Plants? appeared first on Family Handyman.

Add a Small Water Feature

With minimal materials and effort, you can build this beautiful artesian fountain in just two days. Andbonusonce it’s built, you don’t have to worry about maintenance.Here’s how to build it yourself.

The post 19 Inexpensive Landscaping Fixes That Look Pricey appeared first on Family Handyman.

The first thing to do when planning any garden or landscape feature is to ask yourself what you want out of it. Are you trying to attract birds? Add color or fragrance to the area? Or cover up some unsightly porch or deck footings? For our project, our goal was to create low-maintenance front yard landscaping that would freshen up our space and boost the curb appeal of our home.

I want to be very clear: low maintenance landscape does not mean NO maintenance. A flower bed or landscape feature in your yard is a living thing that will require some attention. As much as we wish low maintenance meant “put it in the ground and you’re done,” that is not the case. At a minimum, you must water and pay attention to how your garden grows. Plants are just like people: some are high maintenance, and some are low maintenance. Do a little homework so you can make your choice wisely, and the whole flower garden season will be easier in the end.

I was very fortunate to have Melinda Myers, a highly regarded landscape designer, on this project. I gained a ton of knowledge and am happy to share some of her insight.

Choose plants for garden

Once you know what you want from your garden, it’s time to determine the plants that will get you there. Myers recommends first visiting your local garden center and reading the plant tags.

“Plant tags are excellent,” she says. “They give you the growing conditions and the size of the plant. Some nurseries are now sharing more information on their website, where you can learn so much more than just the hardiness zone. Will it flower? Is it going to provide interest for songbirds and butterflies? Will it match the color you are looking for?”

Sketch out a plot map that includes the anchor plants you want to plant to get an idea of how the garden will come together. Consider the size of the plants now and how big they will grow. Myers always plans to “use smaller complementary plants and annuals for quick fill until plants grow into the space, so it looks like your garden has been there for a while.”

The post How To Create a Low-Maintenance Front Yard Landscaping Feature appeared first on Family Handyman.

Lantana

These cheery full sun flowers come in a variety of colors. They do best with at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Some varieties feature gorgeous multi-colored blooms like the ones pictures here. Others are solid-colored. They handle heat well, too, and are a good choice for landscaping in hot weather.

The post 10 Flowers That Will Thrive in Full Sun appeared first on Family Handyman.

Unlike a leaf blower which blows leaves into manageable piles, a leaf vacuum sucks up leaves and other small debris from your lawn and condenses them intobags for quick and easy cleanup. Many leaf vacuums also mulch everything they suck up, making for easy disposal.

We tested almost a dozen different leaf vacuums and were especially impressed by the quick work the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum made of cleaning up over 30 gallons of leaves. This walk-behind machine has the ability to clean up your yard in no time, leaving you free to enjoy all that this season has to offer. We’re talking trips to the pumpkin patch, cider donuts and cool nights outside at the bonfire. Heres everything you need to know about the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum.

What is the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum?

TheDR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum is a gas-powered, walk-behind leaf vacuumsimilar to apush mower. Its powerfulsuction allows it to clean up huge piles of leaves and other backyard debris.

In spite of its bulk and weightit weighs 120 poundsthis machine is surprisingly easy to assemble. It arrives via freight delivery on a large palette. The lawn vacuum is very securely locked down within the box, with dozens of straps that have to be cut away to get the partially assembled vacuum loose. That said, our testers noted that the vacuum does come mostly put together, so assembly only consists of attaching all of the larger pieces to the main unit.

“It was tricky lifting this beast out of its box, as well as navigating it around with the giant hose continually getting in the way. But again, it was mostly just connecting the large pieces together into one full unit,” says product tester Sheri Kaz.

Another reason we’re so impressed by this machine is that its loaded with extra features, including an onboard chipper, steel impeller, easy bagging system and optional hose kit. You can even adjust the height to best suit wet or dry conditions.

VIA MERCHANT

Shop on Tractor Supply Co.

$1299.99 at Acme Tools

Shop on DR Power

we tried it

DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum

This self-propelled, gas-powered machine has a serrated all-steel impeller and on-board chipper to handle large fall cleanups.

Shop on Tractor Supply Co.

$1299.99 at Acme Tools

Shop on DR Power

DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum Features

EZ Bagger Leaf Collection System

Rather than having to attach, empty and re-attach a reusable bag every time you fire this bad boy up, the DR Leaf and Lawn vacuum uses standard leaf bags that can be deposited at the curb or in the compost pile. The platform holds the bag, and the support ring provides a crimp bar for quick installation. Plus, the latch keeps it secure. Just be sure to read the instruction manual carefully.

“At first, we were confused about how to secure the bag in place, then Annamarie figured out that you secure the bag from underneath,” says product tester Dylan Fischer.

This leaf vacuum also includes a leaf bag caddie that is attached to the unit. It holds up to 10 standard leaf bags, so you have empties on hand as you make your way around the yard. You can purchase another caddie separately for even more storage. You can also buy reusable leaf collection bags if you prefer.

Serrated Steel Impeller

This tough blade mulches everything that crosses its path. In fact, the brand is so confident in this impeller’s durability that it’s backed by a lifetime warranty.

On-Board Chipper

An on-board chipper allows you to add branches up to 1.5 inches in diameter for even more thorough cleanups.

Optional Hose Kit

Purchase an optional hose kit to clean hard-to-reach spots up to seven feet away from the machine, such as window wells, beneath shrubs or along the foundation.

How We Tested It

Product testers Sheri Kaz and Dylan Fischer led the charge and set out to see what the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum was really made of. After unpacking and assembling the machine, they added the oil and gas and started it up. Initially, both testers found it difficult to start.

“Dylan couldn’t figure out how to properly work the choke valve, so we had to recruit some city workers,” explains Kaz. “Of course, the guy (shout out to Greenfield City Worker, Bruce!) was able to start it immediately without asking a single question.”

According to our testers, the choke lever on this machine is a piece of metal that the instructions say must be pushed inward. In reality, it needs to be pulled more to the side when starting the engine, then slowly released as the engine revs up.

Once the unit was up and running, we scattered roughly 30 gallons of leaves across two 10-foot by 4-foot rectangles of grass. One rectangle had dry leaves, and the other had damp leaves that had been misted by a hose. Our testers recorded the time it took the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum to suck up each set of leaves on the highest setting.

For both the wet and dry leaf tests, the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum gave an impressive performance, sucking up almost everything in its path in just one pass. They also appreciated how the chipper automatically turns on without you having to do anything, so it’s always ready to be fed sticks.

Fischer notes that this leaf vacuum isn’t too bad when it comes to maneuverability and feels very similar to a push lawnmower.

What wasn’t ideal, however, was the amount of dust that this unit produced.

“This machine spit out a lot of dust behind it, and Dylan was in the direct line of fire,” says Kaz. “He stopped and had to put on safety eyewear.” The team attributes this to the tubing, which spits debris out toward the top of the vacuum instead of the bottom.

Once everything had been sucked up, our testers noted that the contents of the leaf bag had been mulched up very fine and small. They also pointed out that the on-board chipper is a great feature to have.

Pros

• Handles huge piles of wet and dry leaves
• On-board chipper works well on branches
• Direct bagging
• Steel impeller with a lifetime warranty
• Cleans large areas quickly
• You can walk away from this machine and leave it running

Cons

• Creates a lot of dust
• Too bulky and stiff to make quick turns

FAQ

How does DR Lawn vacuum work?

During testing, our product testing team found that the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum is quite intuitive. All you have to do is start it up and push it around your yard until all of the leaves and other small debris are gone. Any branches you pick up can be put directly into the on-board chipper. When you’re finished with your cleanup, simply remove the bag and put on a new one for next time.

How long will my DR leaf vacuum run?

The DR Lawn and Leaf Vacuum does not run on a battery. It has a 1.0-liter fuel capacity and a 0.5-liter oil capacity and can hold up to 50 pounds of debris. You can expect this machine to run until it runs out of fuel or has reached capacity.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

Verified Tractor Supply Co. user SayCheese writes, “The DR Leaf Vacuum is great! It came on a pallet and needed a small amount of assembly. Only 1/2-inch wrench is required. I am glad I took the advice from others and spent the extra money on the self-propelled. This may sound crazy but, I found operating it to be relaxing. Raking that would take 5-6 hrs. It only took 1-1 1/2 hrs with this machine.”

Kenneth from Little Elm, Texas, is impressed by the performance and convenience of this leaf vacuum and calls it an incredible machine.

“This thing is powerful and vacuums like a champ,” they write on the DR Power website. “However, the real beauty of this machine is its ability to bag in paper bags. Anybody can blow them into a pile, but the pickup is a pain. This eliminates the drudgery of the work and is actually fun. And your neighbors will crowd around wondering what it is!”

And Michael, a 76-year-old from Maryland, calls the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum a fantastic labor-saving machine.

“My usual method has been to blow leaves into a pile, rake onto a tarp, drag tarp to mulch area, run my lawn mower repeatedly over the piles and rake the flakes onto the mulch pile: maybe 6 hours of work 4 or 5 times a season,” they write. “This machine saves me maybe 4 hours each time and lots of sweat. This XTSP has proven this season to be a life-saver. I’m ecstatic, and mention it to everyone!”

DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum vs. Billy Goat Leaf Vacuum

Our experts on the product testing team tested two walk-behind leaf vacuums for comparison sake: the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum and the Billy Goat Lawn & Litter Vacuum. While both units claim to be self-propelled, our team preferred the Billy Goat lawn vacuum’s maneuverability and ability to take quick turns over the stiffer drive of the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum. Additionally, our testers also liked the automated choke lever on the Billy Goat better than the choke lever on the DR.

In terms of performance, the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum cleaned up a large, 10-by-4 area more efficiently than the Billy Goat. The DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum sucked up almost everything in under a minute with just one pass. The Billy Goat, on the other hand, took about a minute and a half and two passes to clear the same amount of leaves in the same area.

The other major difference between the two units is the bag. The Billy Goat Leaf Vacuum comes with a reusable, zipperless bag that is easy to attach and remove. However, it quickly becomes stained and unsightly. The DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum uses standard paper leaf bags that can be closed and put down at the curb or dumped into a compost pile. And if you happen to prefer a reusable bag, you can purchase one separately for the DR for $85.

Final Verdict

“Huge fan of the chipper on this one! Anyone who has to spend a lot of time raking up branches on their lawn will undoubtedly find themselves using this feature a lot,” raves Fischer.

And that’s not the only thing we love about this machine. We’re fans of the reusable bags that are easy to dispose of, the on-board chipper and the steel impeller that mulches leaves and debris as it sucks them up. One thing is for sure: the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum is sure to have your yard clean in no time.

Where to Buy the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum

The DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum is available for around $1,500 at Tractor Supply Co.,Acme Tools, or Blain’s Farm and Fleet. It includes a few paper leaf bags to get you started.

VIA MERCHANT

Shop on Tractor Supply Co.

$1299.99 at Acme Tools

Shop on DR Power

we tried it

DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum

This powerful and efficient vacuum cleared roughly 30 gallons of wet and dry leaves in just one pass.

Shop on Tractor Supply Co.

$1299.99 at Acme Tools

Shop on DR Power

The post The DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum is as Convenient as it is Efficient appeared first on Family Handyman.

Holly

Prized for their shiny, evergreen leaves and red berries, holly bushes are a low-maintenance addition to your garden. Fall is a great time to plant hollies. The cool, seasonal temperatures, followed by months of winter, give them a chance to establish strong roots before facing the heat of summer.

Plan to plant hollies at least six weeks before the first frost to avoid killing new transplants. If wind exposure will be an issue, consider wrapping hollies in burlap to protect them from harsh winter conditions.

The post 8 Outdoor Plants to Get Ready for the Fall appeared first on Family Handyman.

One of our favorite leaf blowers that also functions as a leaf vacuum is the Craftsman backpack leaf blower. It’s powerful, easy to use and budget-friendly. In order to see how well this Craftsman backpack blower stands up to a mountain of leaves, we sent it to our testing lab for close inspection. Heres everything you need to know about this model before you add it to your arsenal of lawn equipment.

What is the Craftsman Backpack Leaf Blower?

The Craftsman backpack leaf blower is an electric leaf blower. It has a 12-inch cord and is a true backpack-style lawn tool with two straps, making it less cumbersome than a sling bag. This leaf blower boasts a powerful 12-amp motor with a velocity and air volume of up to 450 cubic feet per minute (CFM). When it comes to speed, this tool can shoot air out at 260 miles per hour (MPH).

At under 12 pounds, this Craftsman backpack blower is lightweight and incredibly easy to use and maneuver, thanks to its user-friendly handles. But that’s not the only reason we love it so much. This Craftsman blower also functions as a leaf vacuum.

“Vacuums are effective when cleaning up smaller spaces and tight areas. For example, cleaning leaves in bushes,” explains Francisco Fuenmayor, a handyman and home improvement expert at LocalProBook. “A leaf blower won’t be able to blow the leaves out of there, while blowers are better for quickly moving large amounts of debris across bigger spaces.”

No tools are required to switch this from blower to vacuum mode. In vacuum mode, it sucks up and mulches up to 55 liters of leaves into the backpack. Once the bag is full, simply open it up and dump all of the mulched debris out. Yard work has never been so easy! Keep reading for a full breakdown of the Craftsman backpack blower’s features and to find out why it’s one of the best backpack leaf blowers we’ve tested.

VIA MERCHANT

$69.88 at Amazon

$89.98 at Lowe's

we tried it

Craftsman Backpack Leaf Blower

The Craftsman backpack leaf blower also functions as a leaf vacuum for quick and easy cleanup.

$69.88 at Amazon

$89.98 at Lowe's

Craftsman Backpack Leaf Blower Features

Versatility

As mentioned above, the Craftsman backpack blower functions as both a leaf blower and a leaf vacuum. In order to switch between functions, all you have to do is switch the tubes and twist open the fan cover. The fan cover is attached to the machine so you don’t lose it, and no tools are required.

Engine Power and Blowing Force

The Craftsman backpack blower is pretty powerful given its size and price point. Its 12-amp motor allows it to clear tough debris like wet leaves and pebbles. It moves air at 450 cubic feet per minute (CFM). “A strong blower with good CFM is great for cleaning hard-to-reach corners and gathering debris from garden beds into neat piles on the lawn,” explains Fuenmayor. Additionally, the Craftsman backpack blower blows air at up to 260 MPH. A higher MPH increases the distance you are able to clear.

Mulching Capabilities

In vacuum mode, the Craftsman backpack blower’s plastic impeller shreds debris into mulch and deposits it into the backpack. According to the manufacturer, this machine shreds leaves and reduces their volume by a ratio of 12:01. During testing, our testers noted that this blower mulched the leaves very finely.

Warranty

The Craftsman backpack blower is covered by a three-year limited warranty. This means that for three years following the date of purchase or date of delivery of the product (whichever date is later), this machine is warrantied against defects in material or workmanship. This warranty is extended only to the original end-user purchaser of the product. Read more about Craftsman’s warranty policy here.

How We Tested It

The product testing team, led by associate product testers Sheri Kaz and Dylan Fischer, took this Craftsman backpack blower into our testing lab to see what it’s really made of. They looked at how easy it was to assemble and how well it performed as both a leaf blower and a leaf vacuum.

Assembly

Our testers ran into some initial hiccups during the assembly process, noting that the plastic pieces didn’t click into place as satisfyingly as they would have liked. However, they describe the process itself as pretty straightforward. Once it was assembled and ready to go, our testers especially liked the ergonomic handles which allowed them to get a good grip before they started blowing.

Leaf Blowing

To test the Craftsman’s performance as a leaf blower, our team scattered dry leaves around the yard, then blew them into a designated 4-by-10-foot area before vacuuming, evaluating the blower’s directional control, ease of use and noise level. Our testers were really impressed by the power behind this blower. However, it was a bit too powerful at times. “It would be nice if there were multiple speed levels, because the one will blow your pile all around as you get closer to it,” says Kaz. Additionally, this leaf blower registered 106.5 decibels. In other words, it’s loud! Ear and eye protection are strongly recommended.

Vacuuming

After they finished blowing the leaves, our testers set out to test the vacuum function on the Craftsman backpack blower. To convert the machine from a leaf blower to a leaf vacuum, Kaz and Fisher had to swap the blower tube for the vacuum tube and twist open the fan cover, which is attached to the machine so you don’t lose it. Though easy in theory, Kaz and Fischer struggled a bit here, noting that the tubes don’t really click into place. But after double-checking the user manual, they were back in business.

For this test, our testers spread roughly 30 gallons of leaves across two rectangles of grass. They covered one rectangle in dry leaves and the other had damp leaves, which had been misted with a hose. Our testers timed how long it took to suck up each rectangle’s leaves while evaluating the ergonomics, maneuverability, noise level and more.

According to Kaz and Fischer’s report, it took just under three minutes to suck up all of the dry leaves and just over one minute to suck up all of the wet leaves. Upon emptying the bag, they noted that the leaves had been very finely mulched.

Comfort

As for comfort, Fischer points out that the unit itself gets pretty heavy to use for an extended length of time. Luckily, the overall backpack design helped. “The backpack is nice on this one because it’s a full backpack that goes over both shoulders,” he says. “It provides a lot of relief from the weight.”

Overall, our product testing team highly recommends the Craftsman backpack blower. It was a top performer in the lab and is both easy and comfortable to use. “The two-strapped backpack-style bag works amazingly well and should be the standard for all these handheld vacuums. It’s a great way to equally distribute weight and goes a long way to mitigate fatigue,” raves Fischer.

And for less than $100, you simply can’t go wrong.

Pros:

• Functions as a leaf blower and a leaf vacuum
• Two-strapped backpack provides relief from the weight of the unit
• Powerful performance
• Finely mulches leaves and debris it vacuums
• Under $100
• Ergonomic handles

Cons:

• Not cordless
• Plastic pieces don’t readily click into place

Why You Should Trust Us

Our editors and testers on the product testing team have years of experience in the commerce space. We’ve tested dozens of leaf blowers and leaf vacuums, including the Husqvarna Backpack Blower, Stihl BR 600 Backpack Blower and the Ego Leaf Blower. And we don’t plan on stopping there! Currently, we are testing more leaf blowers and leaf vacuums to ensure we help you make informed decisions based on real-life testing before you buy.

To further discuss the benefits and uses of leaf blowers and vacuums, we also enlisted the expertise of Francisco Fuenmayor, a handyman and home improvement expert at LocalProBook.

FAQ

What kind of gas does a Craftsman backpack leaf blower take?

This Craftsman backpack blower is electric and does not take gas.

Why won’t my Craftsman backpack blower start?

First, make sure your Craftsman backpack blower is plugged in. The cord on this model is only 12 inches long, so an extension cord may be required.

If that doesn’t work, check the fan cover. “Initially, you have to turn the cover to lock it into place in order for the machine to turn on,” explains Fischer. “We didn’t realized this, so the machine wouldn’t start after several tries. Finally, after about five attempts and referring to the user manual, it seemed that whatever was hanging it up resolved itself and we were able to click the cover into place.”

What kind of oil goes in a Craftsman?

This Craftsman backpack blower does not require oil.

What Other Reviewers and Experts Had to Say

Five-star reviewer Robert T Kennedy appreciates how well this unit cleans his yard without sucking up expensive decorative stones. “I liked the multiple options for the leaf blower,” he writes. “One piece of equipment keeps my lawn, garden, walkways and driveway clean with its powerful motor. Definitely worth the reasonable price.”

Micray, another five-star reviewer, calls the Craftsman backpack blower a back-saver. “This has been such a lifesaver trying to clean up. My backyard had hundreds of those little bitty gumballs, and this has made picking them up so much easier,” they write.

After running into some of the same issues as our product testing team in regards to getting the pieces into place, verified user Girly Gamer is happy to have figured it out. “It ended up working beautifully on the vacuum part which is all I wanted. Great power, bag is comfortable and holds A LOT! It is fairly heavy, but with the two handles, it’s not too bad,” they write. “Saved me big time from raking and bending over to pick up piles of pine needles which had been building up for a year! Even mulched pine cones and twigs fine…”

Product Comparison

Our product testing team tested a total of six blower vacuum combos including the Craftsman backpack blower. They labeled this unit the best overall for its performance, two-strap backpack style and good value. We also tested the Toro Ultra Blower Vac, another corded model which functions as a blower and a vacuum. The Craftsman and the Toro are both similarly sized and priced, there was a significant difference in performance.

The Craftsman backpack blower has a velocity and air volume of up to 450 cubic feet per minute (CFM) and expels air at 260 miles per hour (MPH). The Toro, on the other hand, has a velocity and air volume of 340 CFM in blow mode and 405 CFM in vac mode. And though the Toro boasts the same 260 MPH as the Craftsman, our testers found the Toro’s blowing performance to be much weaker than the Craftsman backpack blower.

Additionally, the Craftsman backpack blower has a two-strapped backpack-style bag which makes it easy to tote around the yard. The Toro has one strap which you can sling over your shoulder. Though not uncomfortable, it’s not as convenient as the Craftsman backpack blower.

Final Verdict

If you’re looking for an inexpensive way to keep your yard neat and tidy, you can’t go wrong with the Craftsman backpack blower. This versatile blower is comfortable, easy to use and powerful enough to get the job done. In short, you can expect your lawn to look like a million bucks all autumn long thanks to this handy backpack blower.

Where to Buy the Craftsman backpack leaf blower

The Craftsman backpack leaf blower is a steal at under $100. You can shop on Amazon where it’s available with free two-day Prime shipping. You can also shop at Lowe’s where it’s available for in-store pickup or delivery.

VIA MERCHANT

$69.88 at Amazon

$89.98 at Lowe's

we tried it

Craftsman Backpack Leaf Blower

The two-strapped backpack equally distributes the blower's weight.

$69.88 at Amazon

$89.98 at Lowe's

The post This Craftsman Backpack Leaf Blower Is Two Tools In One, And It’ll Clean Up Your Yard in No Time appeared first on Family Handyman.

Aphids can wreak havoc on your beloved houseplants, but don’t despair! Several effective methods exist to eliminate these pesky insects and restore your plants to a healthy state. Here are a few that’ll get rid of them for good.

What are aphids?

Aphids are small, common insects that infest both indoor and outdoor plants. Typically measuring 2 to 4 millimeters in length, these pests can be challenging to spot as they often hide beneath leaves. Aphids come in various colors, including green, black, red, gray, and yellow. While they pose no direct threat to humans or pets, they can transmit harmful plant diseases. Signs of aphid infestation include yellowing, wilting, or stunted leaves, as well as small white flakes or spots on the foliage, which are the shed skins of growing aphids.

Why aphids are bad for your plants?

Aphids are detrimental to plant health because they feed on plant sap, disrupting the distribution of nutrients throughout the plant. These insects reproduce rapidly, and a large aphid population can cause severe plant damage, potentially leading to death if left unchecked.

Outdoor plants benefit from natural defenses against aphids, including rainfall and predatory insects such as ladybugs, which eat aphids. However, indoor plants are more vulnerable and require human intervention for protection. The presence of aphids can result in yellowed, wilted, dying, or stunted leaves, significantly impacting your plants’ overall health and appearance.

Manual removal methods

• Pick off the aphids. Have a small bucket of soapy water ready. Remove the aphids and place them in the soapy water to kill them.
• Wash them off the plant. You can get rid of aphids by taking the houseplant outside and spraying them off the plant with water using a spray bottle or garden hose.
• Prune the infested area. In the rare case that only a particular stem or leaf is infested, prune off that area.

The post How To Get Rid of Aphids on Houseplants appeared first on Family Handyman.

A very easy way to define a flower bed or a walkway is with landscape edging. Edging comes in many materials, including plastic, wood and my personal favorite- metal.

Besides helping to define a garden’s edge and keeping things such as dirt, mulch or stones in place, metal edging has many upsides. It is easy to calculate, and the actual material is flexible, which means it takes curves easily. It is also relatively easy to cut with a cut-off wheel and angle grinder and comes in a few different colors to choose from.

Installing metal edging is an easy project with the physical demand of being on your hands and knees for the duration. With all landscaping projects remember, slow and steady wins the race. Wear kneepads, pace yourself, plan for more time than you anticipate and drink lots of fluids as you go. Happy gardening!

Lay out the area

Before cutting your lawn, you will want a visual reference to ensure placement. Define a specific line where you plan to install your metal edging by spraying with a colored landscape marking spray paint. This spray paint is designed for use in an inverted position for marking construction and landscape projects. It works great on exterior surfaces such as concrete, blacktop, gravel, soil and grass.

The post Edge a Flower Bed or Walkway in 5 Steps appeared first on Family Handyman.

Manufacturers have gone to great lengths to not only make them even safer but also more comfortable and, dare I say, attractive. Modern work boots claim to be safer, lighter and better fittingand can be worn all day. Could it possibly be true?

Keen Utility’s Evanston boot is one of those new-era utility boots that challenge misconceptions. I tried them to see if they could withstand my everyday tasks and meet industrial standards. I was thrilled with these boots, so read on to hear why.

What is the Keen Utility Evanston Work Boot?

Keen Utility designed the Evanston work boot to meet the needs of many professionals. However, I found it practical for any application where comfort and safety are paramount. Keen Utility states that the work boot is great for assembly line workers, electricians, the aerospace industry and light manufacturing.

The boots tick all the boxes for standard work boots, with safety and meeting standards being the highest priorities. Theyre a six-inch high waterproof boot suitable for many manufacturing and construction situations. Durable leather offers the wearer protection and makes the boots visually appealing.

PAMELA BONDURANT/FAMILY HANDYMAN

$126.75 at Amazon

$149.95 at Zappos.com

$149.99 at Cabela's

$111.98 at Bass Pro Shops

We Tried It

Keen Utility Evanston Work Boot

$126.75 at Amazon

$149.95 at Zappos.com

$149.99 at Cabela's

$111.98 at Bass Pro Shops

Keen Utility Evanston Work Boot Features

The Keen Utility Evanston Work Boot stands out with a suite of high-performance features designed for durability and safety. This boot is not only oil, slip and heat resistant, but also boasts a carbon-fiber toe. This makes them a lighter alternative to traditional steel toes while maintaining robust protection. Rated for electrostatic discharge (ESD), the boot ensures safe use in environments where static electricity is a concern.

The boot’s six-inch ankle height provides essential protection and stability, a crucial aspect both industrial settings and demanding work environments. The heat-resistant outsole further enhances durability, allowing the boot to withstand high temperatures without compromising performance or comfort.

The Keen Utility Evanston is equipped with Keen.ReGEN technology, a proprietary sole designed to offer 50% more energy return compared to standard foam soles. This technology helps reduce fatigue and increases comfort during long hours on your feet. Additionally, the boot features a 90-degree heel (half an inch) that contributes to its stability and balance.

The eyelets are constructed from plastic rather than metal, minimizing the risk of marring highly finished surfacesa thoughtful detail for professionals working with delicate materials. The boots also have reflective elements for enhanced visibility in low-light conditions.

The leather used is barnyard resistant, meaning it effectively withstands the detrimental effects of common livestock-related hazards like oleic acid and urea.

Furthermore, the Leather Working Group certifies the leather as “environmentally preferred,” which ensures that the tanneries adhere to rigorous environmental standards, including waste management and greenhouse gas reduction.

As an extra bonus, the boots are PFA-free and contain no “forever chemicals.”

How We Tested the Keen Utility Evanston Work Boot

The boots arrived by mail in terrific packaginga sturdyboot box that Ill be reusing. The boots were pre-laced and ready to use, so I put them on my feet around 8:30 a.m. As someone who dislikes wearing shoes and only wearsthem as a necessitysomething I equate to foot prisonI didnt even think to take these brand-new boots off my feet for almost 12 hours!

I wear a Euro size 39 with a narrow-to-normal width foot and received a U.S. womens 8.5 medium boot. The fit was perfect, and Keens signature roomy toe box was a welcome relief for my claustrophobic toes and the real or imagined widening of my foot as I age. The cushioned part around the ankle felt comfy and didnt give me that restrictive feeling I get when I revisit my early 90s hipster days and wear my heavy, black ankle boots.

I wasnt going to test the carbon fiber toe for safety as they did once on Myth Busters (anyone else see that episode?), but the toe was clearly fortified. I felt confident that my tootsies were in safe hands and opted out of dropping a toolbox on my foot. Another welcome surprise was that the composite toe was not even noticeable, even as my toes were bent, which is something Ive struggled with in other steel-toed boots.

I spent the remainder of the day doing various chores in these boots. I weeded, ran the string trimmer, cleaned gutters and dug up volunteer lemongrass that was invading my flower beds. I walked on grass, mud and mulch. I even took my daily multi-mile walk on asphalt in these boots because it didnt occur to me to change my shoes.

Keen Utility boasts that the heel design of these boots helps secure the foot in place on ladders. While climbing the ladder to clean my gutters, I felt absolutely confident. While digging with a shovel and on the ladder rungs, the sole’s sturdiness did not cause discomfort or fatigue. As the day went by, I was so very surprised that my ankles also did not feel any chafing or excessive pressure.

Pros:

• Certified for safety standards and ESD
• Comfortable
• Lightweight
• Environmentally preferred leather
• Reflective
• Chemical and biological resistant leather
• Multiple widths

Cons:

• No color selection for women
• Limited sizes in both mens and womens styles

Why Trust Me

Ive been wearing work boots for most of my adult life. Ive lived and worked on an organic farm, worked as a land surveyor in many regulated environments, owned a landscaping company and done gobs of contracting work in painting and basic carpentry. Nothing makes my work easier than comfortable and practical footwear.

As a professional product reviewer, I am committed to considering my needs and those of others when evaluating products. The boots are no exception, and I considered many factors in order to give a fair assessment. I looked at both my personal needs and those of people of different sizes and in various industries.

FAQ

Are Keen boots good for work?

There are many types of work boots that are certified for certain industrial uses and safety issues. Many Keen utility boots are approved for these uses and, therefore, are excellent work boots. Keen also has hiking boots and casual boots that may be suitable for certain work environments.

Are Keen shoes good for your feet?

Theyre certainly not bad for your feet! In fact, with the arch support, protection and roomy toe box, your feet are getting the royal treatment as far as footwear goes. Keen utility boots come with a 30-day trial, so if you find that they are not meeting your needs, you can return them.

Are Keen boots waterproof?

Some Keen boots are waterproof. The Evanston boot reviewed is rated as waterproof and is indicated for wet and dry use. If waterproof boots are a must, be sure to check the manufacturers stated uses and capabilities.

What Other Reviewers/Experts Had to Say

LaRita B. gives a5-star review onKeens site, saying, Wide enough!!!!! Yes, finally, Keen listened! These safety-toeboots are wide enough to fit my foot. Thanks, well done.

Vicki Rose, owner of SPC Specialty Products, a woman-owned business serving the manufacturing and energy sectors, says, I wear industrial boots daily for work. This boot meets all the safety requirements, looks good, and even comes in a womens 5, which is perfect for me.

Best boot ever, says Jade P on Keens site. I bought these off of a recommendation from a coworker. So comfortable, even without another insole! My blisters I got from my other boots went away, and because of the composite toe all my ankle pain is gone (because my old boots were too heavy). Seriously the best purchase Ive ever made.

Keens vs. Red Wings

Icompared these boots to a pair of Redwing steel-toed boots that I used to wear for work and found the Keens have far more support and cushioning. Thecarbon fiber toe was not even noticeable on the Keens, as opposed to the discomfort inflicted on my foot by the old-school steel toe.

I also compared the Keen to a newer pair of steel-toed Red Wings side-by-side and found the comfort and styling to be somewhat equal, but the Keen was significantly lighter.

Final Verdict

The extensive listing of safety ratings on this boot makes it viable for almost all work conditions. The wonderful support and comfort allow for all-day wearing without the need to break them in. Its stylish, too. I was unable to come up with really any criticisms of this boot, so I 100% recommend it. Theres nothing to risk thanks to Keen’s 30-day return period, so try out a pair for yourself.

Where to Buy

You can find Keen Utility’s Evanston boot on Amazon and Zappos for around $150. The sizing is accurate, and with Keens 30-day return policy, the risk of buying shoes online is minimized.

PAMELA BONDURANT/FAMILY HANDYMAN

$126.75 at Amazon

$149.95 at Zappos.com

$149.99 at Cabela's

$111.98 at Bass Pro Shops

Keen Utility Evanston Work Boot

$126.75 at Amazon

$149.95 at Zappos.com

$149.99 at Cabela's

$111.98 at Bass Pro Shops

The post Keen Utility’s New Work Boot is the Perfect Boot for Almost Everything appeared first on Family Handyman.

If you want to add to your houseplant collection, you’ll need pots. The easiest way to ensure your plants survive and stay healthy is to use pots with drainage holes. But drilling into ceramic is tricky.

We spoke to John Hancock, a horticulturist, and Evie Chang, an artist who works with ceramics, to learn how and why to drill a hole in a ceramic pot. Read on for their tips and insight.

Determine what type of pot you’re working with

Chang explains that the drilling technique varies depending on whether your pot has been fired in a kiln yet. “The short answer, regardless, is ‘[you should drill] carefully,'” she says.

If your pot is unfired, Chang says you can drill a hole “by hand with any drill bit and light pressure.” It’s better to go slowly and lightly so that you don’t break the pot. However, unfired pots are uncommon, and you’ll likely only run into an one if you made it yourself.

If you’ve bought your pot from a garden center, it’s already been fired. Chang’s technique “will work for either glazed or unglazed pots, though glazed pots are much tricker as the glazed surface is slick.”

The post Best Way to Drill a Drainage Hole in a Ceramic Pot appeared first on Family Handyman.

Chainsaws are excellent tools for cutting fallen trees and large branches. They are incredibly powerful and can cause severe injuries if used improperly. It is essential to be cautious while using a chainsaw and to follow all safety guidelines to prevent accidents. Remember that most accidents occur during the initial cut and the finish of the cut.

Most newer chainsaws come with safety features built into the chainsaw, which are beneficial but should never be considered a replacement for thorough training in chainsaw operation. Before starting the chainsaw, ensure you have all the necessary safety gear:

• Safety gloves
• Steel- or composite-toe boots
• Hearing protection
• Full face shield
• Safety chaps
• Safety helmet

Electric vs gas chainsaws

With various options available, including gas-powered and electric models, deciding which suits your needs can be overwhelming.

Gas chainsaws are known for their incredible power, making them capable of handling large-scale tasks such as cutting down trees and thick logs. They require regular maintenance, including fuel and oil, air filter cleaning, and spark plug replacements. Compared to electric chainsaws, gas chainsaws tend to be heavier and louder.

Electric chainsaws are lightweight, easy to start and require minimal maintenance. They are eco-friendly since they run on electricity but are typically less powerful than gas chainsaws. Depending on the model, battery-powered chainsaws may have limited runtime and require frequent recharging, or you’ll need to have additional batteries charged and ready to go.

A gas chainsaw would provide enough power if your work mainly involves large-scale tasks. For smaller projects around your home, the cutting capabilities of an electric chainsaw may suffice. If you’re a beginner or have limited physical strength, an electric chainsaw’s lightweight design and ease of use may be more appropriate.

Avoid chainsaw kickback

Always wrap the thumb of your left hand around the front handle while cutting. This encircling grip keeps the saw under control during a kickback. Cutting with the chain on the bottom of the bar is the most common and natural-feeling way to cut. Cutting with the bottom bar will pull the chainsaw towards the trunk. Cutting the underside of a trunk requires you to cut with the top of the bar, which is a little unnerving initially because the saw pushes toward you. But its safe if youre well-braced and follow all other precautions.

You should avoid a spot on the bar called the kickback zone, which is the top half of the bars tip. If the kickback zone comes in contact with something while the chain moves, the saw will kick up and back toward you. Modern chainsaws have a chain brake to stop the chain if a kickback occurs.

I recommend taking the time to stand back and assess the situation. Think about how youll cut each branch and what will happen. Branches facing up will fall, so make sure the fall path is open. Even seasoned pros cant always predict how far the trunk will drop or whether the tree will roll. But you should always imagine the worst-case scenario and be prepared for it.

Preparation and inspection

Before using your chainsaw, ensure you have the proper safety gear and read the operator’s manual because each chainsaw is unique.

Inspect the chain to see if the blades are dull and need to be sharpened or replaced. A dull chain is unsafe and overworks the saw. If you dont know how to sharpen a chainsaw chain, you can purchase a new one from a hardware store or home center.

The post How To Use a Chainsaw Safely appeared first on Family Handyman.

Residential users are switching from traditional gas-powered lawn equipment to electric ones. Why? Battery-operated tools are quiet, require no gas or oil and almost always start. Battery power and longevity have improved over the years, so whats not to love?

But have you ever wondered if cordless string trimmers work as well asgasoline-powered string trimmers? I tested the popular battery-powered Ryobi string trimmer for the past three months, and I have the answers you seek.

What is the Ryobi String Trimmer?

The Ryobi string trimmer is a 40V, 15-inch cordless string trimmer that retails for under $200. For context, the Ryobi brand is The Home Depots economical lineup of tools. Geared towards residential homeowners, this string trimmer tackles lawns of almost any size, depending on the battery you use. Plus, its part of Ryobi’s expand-it collection, which enables the attachment of tools other than the string attachment that was tested in this review.

PAMELA BONDURANT/FAMILY HANDYMAN

Shop Now on The Home Depot

$127.13 at Amazon

Ryobi String Trimmer

Shop Now on The Home Depot

$127.13 at Amazon

Ryobi Cordless String Trimmer Features

The Ryobi 15-inch 40V string trimmerincludes a straight shaft string trimmer attachment, a 4-amp-hour battery, a charger and a 0.080-inch line (which can also accept up to 0.095 inches). Ryobis 40V batteries come standard with LED status lights, and the 80-watt charger should charge the battery in a little over 2.5 hours. A 70-minute run timeis advertised.

The tool utilizes a bump feed mechanism to advance the line, which is pretty standard across string trimmers. As mentioned above, the bump head trimmer can be removed and replaced by a bladed, serrated head and the entire lower shaft can be removed and replaced by tools such as a pole saw using the quick change coupler system. The string can be adjusted from 13 to 15 inches, and Ryobi boasts that it reloads in under 60 seconds with its speed winder.

The trigger is variable speed, and the straight shaft is sturdy carbon fiber. While thetool carries a 5-year warranty, the battery only carries a 3-yearwarranty. A brushless motor powers the tool.

How We Tested the Ryobi String Trimmer

Im testing many string trimmers and comparing them against the same criteria. The first thing I consider is the packaging, assembly, and instructions to get started. I started the battery charging while I assembled and read and noted that the battery took close to three hours to charge, which is something to keep in mind if youre eager to get trimming.

The bump head was already loaded with string, but I needed to attach it to the power head. I struggled a bit with this seemingly simple task as I had trouble getting the lower shaft to slide into the upper shaft. I managed to get it to attach, but then it went too far into the upper shaft, and you may already be guessing that I struggled to pull it outand yes, of course, it came all the way out. My next attempt was successful, and the quick couple system only required a half turn to lock it into placea nice update to Ryobis older attachments, which relied on winding and hand tightening.

The battery was easy to attach, but as I was attaching it, I noticed it felt quite heavy and wondered if it was my imagination. I headed to the scale, and it weighed in at just under 3 pounds, which seemed innocuous until I weighed a few more 4-amp-hour batteries, and they came in at 1 and 1.5 pounds. Please note that the battery is a bit heavy.

I started trimming and tackling weeds growing through the paver cracks and around tree stumps. The power was ample, and while the 0.80 string broke easily against the pavement (not unexpected), the trimmer chewed through the weeds and grass with ease. The deflector did not block a good amount of the grit and grass, but Ive never met a string trimmer that doesnt leave my shins coated in dirt and weeds.

Turning the tool to the edge was awkward but doable, and the straight shaft was well-balanced. I experimented here with the variable speed trigger since I like to move a little slower when edging, and it helped with my aim, as Im a bit of a zig zagger with a string trimmer. The brushless motor had the familiar scratchy noise and was a tad louder than some cordless string trimmers, but the battery still showed a 75% charge after approximately 20 minutes of use.

For my final act, a string change was in order, and my history with spooling string trimmers is not marked as successful. Having used many Ryobi string trimmers over the years, I knew the drill using their loading tool. The great thing about their method is that it works! You slide about 10 inches of string through the center of the bump head without worrying about direction, multiple layers of spooling or remembering how to re-attach the head and wind with the provided tool.

With that successful winding experience, I must caution users based on my previous experiences. The winding tool does not attach or stay with the trimmer, so you need to know where the tool is in your garage or shed. If you cant find it, then you are not going to be able to re-string your trimmer until you buy a replacement or figure out a clever way to wind the head. I now keep mine tied to the handle.

Pros

• Long-running battery
• Fast reloading
• Takes fixed blade heads
• Interchangeable attachments
• Large cutting area
• Long shaft for tall users

Cons

• Heavy battery
• Tool required for reloading
• Not ideal for short users

FAQ

How do you put the line in a Ryobi string trimmer?

Reloading is relatively easy on Ryobis string trimmers. Unlike most string trimmers, Ryobi uses a proprietary tool to wind the string. To reload, all you need to do is insert the string through the holes in the head and wind. This can be done without removing any parts from the head.

How does the Ryobi trimmer auto-feed?

The Ryobi trimmer uses a bump feed mechanism. To advance the line, you bump the head on the ground while the trimmer is at full speed. If the line does not advance, you can manually press down on the head (while its not in use!) and pull on the line.

How do you remove the string head from a Ryobi trimmer?

This gets a little tricky. You need to pinch the sides of the trimmer and rotate the padlock symbol to the open padlock symbol. My hands arent big enough to do that, so I use some huge channel locks to squeeze and then another pair of channel locks to rotate. Once the symbols are lined up, the head pops right off.

What Other Reviewers Have to Say

Check out what a few other Ryobi string trimmer users have to say about this affordable tool:

Just as good as gas,” remarks customer Frank on The Home Depot website. “My neighbor has this model and I have the gas powered head. After trying his I bought one for myself. I already had most of the attachments. The battery last long enough for me to trim, edge and blow my grass before I have to recharge. It is so quiet I can start earlier in the morning and not wake the neighbors. No gas smell, exhaust smoke or heat.”

Carbon fiber is for real,” five-star reviewer Mike explains. “I have the “original” 40V brushless weed eater, which I have been using it heavily for 2-3 years now for brush clearance. I finally destroyed the head of the string trimmer and decided to give the carbon fiber a shot. The carbon fiber is significantly lighter than the old version and it makes a big difference. In terms of power, it truly does have gas-like power. The battery lasts long enough to trim a yard. If you’re trying to clear a large area, you’ll need a few batteries.

Ryobi String Trimmer vs Other String Trimmers

The Ryobi string trimmer stacks up nicely compared to other cordless string trimmers. The high-capacity battery is a standout, though, as I mentioned earlier, it adds as much as two pounds to the total weight. Another standout is the easy reloading mechanism, with the downside being that a proprietary tool is required to reload the string.

As for power, it was right up there with other cordless and gas string trimmers. The straight shaft was great for extended reaching but not as comfortable as a curved shaft. The noise level was slightly louder than my Ego trimmer, but not by much. The cost of ownership is a little less than that of other cordless string trimmers.

Final Verdict

Based on my testing, the Ryobi 15-inch cordless string trimmer gets a definite vote of yes. The factors influencing my decision lie primarily in the easy winding, high capacity battery and economical price. If you already own other Ryobi 40V tools or interchangeable attachments, this trimmer is a shoo-in for your collection. Another bonus is that parts and add-ons are easily found locally at The Home Depot.

Where to Buy

You canbuy a Ryobi string trimmer with battery and charger for under $200 onAmazon or atThe Home Depot.

PAMELA BONDURANT/FAMILY HANDYMAN

Shop Now on The Home Depot

$127.13 at Amazon

Ryobi String Trimmer

Shop Now on The Home Depot

$127.13 at Amazon

The post I Tried the Ryobi Cordless String Trimmer and Will String Out the Details for You appeared first on Family Handyman.

After sending way too many kinky and inferior hoses to the landfills, Ill admit, Ive become a hose snob. I bought my first expandable hose at a home and garden show before they were ever Seen on TV and I never wanted to use anything else again. When the plastic connectors popped off within a month, I was devastated that I couldnt find them in the big box storesyet.

I generally use a reliable 50-foot hybrid polymer hose plus an expandable hose for maximum maneuverability. When youve been gardening as long as I have, it’s a pain to drag around a heavy hose.

To top it off, Im hard on hoses. I try to take care of them, but Ive definitely been hosed in the past with subpar products. As a result, Im pretty darn picky now and Ill pay more for quality. Expanding hoses have been around for decades now. Unfortunately, my experience is that they only last a season or two. I had to find out why 49,000 Amazon customers love the Flexi Hose, for myself.

What is a Flexi Hose?

Flexi Hose is a kink-free expandable garden hose that shrinks to a compact size and fits into a small box when not in use. It expands up to three times its length and is super soft to the touch. This hose is absolutely kink-free and easily travels with you.

Flexi Hose comes with a rotating spray nozzle with eight settings. With the 3/4-inch diameter and brass connectors, expect great water pressure. If youre looking for lightweight, this 50-foot hose only weighs 4.69 pounds. Flexi Hose is available in 25, 50, 75 and 100-foot lengths and has four color options.

$60.34 at Home Depot

Product Features

Flexi Hose is not only lightweight and flexible, its strong. Its been tested for over 2000 uses and is designed for heavy-duty use. The four-ply inner tube is puncture resistant. The crush-proof solid brass fitting has a convenient on/off toggle and is adjustable to control water pressure. Bonus points for four extra rubber washers included in the package.

How We Tested It

At the dawn of the spring, I pulled out my trusty Flexzilla hose and the expandable hose that I purchased three years ago (with a five-year warranty). I winterized them and stored them in the garage. But the expandable hose sprung a gusher before the gardening season even began.

I have a 1/4-acre property and no water spigot in the front, so an expandable hose is a necessity to reach the far corners of the lot. When the Flexi Hose arrived, I was struck by how strong the outer material felt compared to other expandable hoses Ive owned. Once filled with water, it felt more substantial than others and very smooth. It felt less like fabric and more like strong vinyl. I was immediately impressed.

Maneuverability with the Flexi Hose was sleeker than others, it slid through the tall dry grass and around rocks without a hitch. I love that this hose doesnt need to be wound up after each use, whereas other hoses can grow mold or damage grass if left on the lawn. Flexi Hose quickly shrivels into a soft little pile that can be stowed in a flower pot.

One of my least favorite chores in the fall is finding room in my single-car garage to store my big rubber hose. Whereas an expandable hose takes up such little space it might even be hard to spot in the spring.

Ample Water Pressure

I was blown away by the pressure that came out of this garden hose, especially compared to the previous expandable hoses. Its sized properly for a standard outdoor faucet with 3/4-inch fittings and diameter for maximum flow (no wonder the others blew up so quickly). It works really well to clean the patio using the spray nozzle on the jet or angle setting. The user manual warns that water pressure must be in the range of 40-145 PSI. Not sure what that means for you? Learn more about water pressure from our Family Handyman experts.

Nozzles and Sprinkler Heads

I used all my favorite nozzles and sprinkler heads with the Flexi Hose. When using the sprinklers I fully extended the hose out about 20 feet, set it down and turned on the water. Once it was filled with water, I could stretch it out to its 50-foot length, but I got wet. My former expandable hoses couldnt handle a sprinkler head without recoiling. Although light, this garden hose has bulk that keeps it in place when using the soaker or a sprinkler.

Multi-function Nozzle Included

Its nice to have a free lightweight spray head. My last expandable hose seemed too fragile for the solid metal Dramm I enjoy using. The eight features on the Flexi Hose spray nozzle work for almost any situation, from soaker mode to mist, I easily adjusted the flow of water to match my needs by using the toggle on the fitting.

Pros

• Lightweight
• Kink-free
• Easy to use
• Spray nozzle included
• Compact
• Solid brass hardware

Cons

• Pricey
• Some users report snags with concrete surfaces

FAQ

What is the downside of expandable hoses?

In my experience, the biggest downside is longevity compared to more durable hoses. The fittings pop off or they develop a gushing leak near the faucet. Getting a longer hose than you need helps to reduce over-pulling and stress near the spigot.

The lack of longevity is one of the reasons why I searched for a reliable 50-foot polymer hybrid hose in addition to an expandable hose. Getting a properly sized expandable hose (3/4-inch) will reduce water pressure stress. Likewise, hoses with brass fittings are stronger than plastic fittings.

Storing your new expandable hose in the shade will also help to prolong its life.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

“This is a great hose”, says five-star Amazon reviewer Jay Handley, adding, I could really not be any happier with this purchase. This is a highly flexible and durable product. I had purchased a half-inch cheaper hose and had no water pressure from my garden spigot. This hose which is 3/4-inch works beautifully and provides a great flow. There are cheaper flexible hoses on the market but this one is made to last. Great product!

Another verified Amazon reviewer, Fagan E. Brownwrote, I recently purchased the Flexi Hose with the 8 Function Nozzle, and I must say, it has been a game-changer for my gardening needs. This expandable garden hose has exceeded my expectations in every way, making watering and cleaning tasks a breeze.”

Product Comparison

The Flexi Hose has a 3/4-inch flow to accommodate high-pressure watering, compared to cheaper 5/8-inch expandable hoses. The fabric itself feels stronger than other expanding hoses Ive owned and its significantly lighter than rubber hoses. Plus, it’s kink-free, unlike plastic hoses.

Final Verdict

I was so happy when the Flexi Hose arrived that Ive now come to rely on an expandable hose. Theyre easier to carry, drag and store. The Flexi Hose is less likely to take out a pepper plant than a heavy rubber hose and generally makes watering a joy, rather than a chore.

This hose easily navigates and avoids obstacles so I can water the flowers and bushes behind my fence with its generous flow. Flexi Hose feels solid and strong with its brass couplings and strong material.

The free spray nozzle is a bonus and it was extra nice of them to include four extra washers. This expanding hose works great and based on its construction Im confident it will last longer than the last ones.

If youve never experienced an expandable hose, youll love the kink-free feature that Flexi Hose offers. No more struggling, tugging and wasting time winding it up.

Where to Buy the Flexi Hose

Flexi Hose makes watering fast, fun and easy. Youll be a smooth operator with this slick expandable hose. Grab one today at Home Depot or Walmart for around $60.

$60.34 at Home Depot

Shop Now on Walmart

The post Flexi Hose Review: Is It Truly the Best Expandable Garden Hose on the Market? appeared first on Family Handyman.

You can do many things to reduce the invasion of your outdoor space, but most experts will tell you nothing is foolproof and there’s no one-size-fits-all technique. One hack DIYers often try is scattering soap in the yard to deter bugs. The question is: Does it work?

Ahead, learn whether or not scattering soap in your yard is an effective way to repel bugs and animals.

What Does Scattering Soap in the Yard Do?

“Soaps, in general, can work as repellents,” says Dr. Daniel Kiefer, PhD, an entomologist and the technical director at American Pest. “The scent of soap together with other sources of human smell, like hair clippings, will deter deer since they associate the smell with humans.”

Scattering soap isn’t a long-term solution, however. “Their usage as repellents is limited since they will be washed away with the next rain and the high humidity during the summer months,” he adds.

Can scattering soap repel bugs?

Bars of soap and shavings can temporarily deter bugs. The scent of soap can discourage insects and provide a temporary fix, but the perfume scent will quickly fade with summer heat and rainfall.

Can scattering soap repel animals?

Some gardeners turn to highly fragrant soaps scattered around the yard to repel animals with a sensitive sense of smell. Some methods include hanging soap in mesh bags in trees or around the perimeter of your garden to keep mice, rodents, rabbits, and deer away from the yard.

But be aware, even if the soap you choose is extremely potent-smelling, like Irish Spring Soap (a popular option among DIYers), this method is still a temporary deterrent and not a long-term solution for animals entering the property and causing damage to plants. “While Irish Spring may keep an animal away for a short period of time, once they get used to it and realize that it won’t hurt them, they come back,” says Pamela J. Bennett, associate professor and state master gardener program director at Ohio State University.

Will Scattering Soap Harm My Yard or Garden?

No, soap scattered in the garden is generally safe and probably won’t harm your garden. Kiefer has some suggestions for ensuring the health of your plants.

“Where soaps can be used quite well is as surfactants,” says Dr. Kiefer. “Use in the form of a mild soap solution (preferably liquid dish soap as a base) applied as a contact spray on small insects like aphids and mealybugs. It does not have a residual effect and does not harm pollinators if they are not directly sprayed at.”

Like scattered soap shavings, soap solutions also only offer a temporary solution to an insect problem, and some can cause damage if not used correctly. Soap will not permanently kill off an invading insect population.

Is Scattering Soap in the Yard Safe for Pets?

Yes, but be cautious if you have pets who habitually eat products other than their food. Bar soap isn’t toxic to dogs when they eat it, but due to its chemicals, they may experience diarrhea or vomiting. Anything you use in the yard for maintenance and upkeep must be considered for safety when it comes to our pets’ access to outdoor yard spaces.

Is Scattering Soap in the Yard Safe for Humans?

Yes, soap scattered in areas of the yard is safe for humans. However, some people might be bothered by strong scents in soap products or allergic to handling soap with oils or perfumes. Soap products are not meant for intentional ingestion.

Which Soap Should I Scatter in My Garden?

In general, you can try any brand of soap in bar form or as shavings to see if the product’s scent works to temporarily keep insects and animals away in your yard.

If you use soap mixed with water in a solution, look for eco-friendly dish soap like Seventh Generation or Dawn. “Overall, natural soaps without dozens of chemical additives are better for soapy water if no pesticides are to be used,” Kiefer adds.

Should I Scatter Soap in my Yard?

You can try! But remember that soap will only temporarily solve the problem, if it works at all.

Even if insects and animals are turned away due to the strong smell, they’ll return eventually. “Soaps do not keep insects and animals away from the garden,” says Bennett.

For a permanent fix to the problem, Bennett suggests using products formulated specifically to get rid of insects. “There are products formulated to prevent damage to plants while killing insects … Always use a product labeled insecticide to control and get rid of insects. These are available for purchase and are formulated to prevent damage to plants while killing insects.”

About the Experts

• Dr. Daniel Kiefer is a PhD entomologist and the technical director at American Pest, a pest control company with almost 100 years of pest management experience based in the metro Washington, DC, area.
• Pamela J Bennett is an Associate Professor and State Master Gardener Program Director Extension Educator, Horticulture at Ohio State University.

The post Does Scattering Soap in the Yard Work to Repel Bugs and Animals? appeared first on Family Handyman.

For context, a hedge trimmer is the best tool for shaping and maintaining landscape foliage with frequent trimming. In contrast, a hedge cutterthe hedge trimmer’s cousinis a more powerful cutting tool for tackling thicker branches and overgrown, neglected hedges in dire need of significant shaping.

However, many homeowners tend to supersize their outdoor equipment needs, believing a tool featuring more power and added functions is ultimately better. This mindset isn’t always accurate, says Brandon Barker, a seasoned landscape professional with more than ten years of experience as general manager of Cleveland-based J. Barker Landscaping, a family business serving clients throughout Northeast Ohio for five decades.

Barker says DIYers should be leery of overkill equipment or purchasing landscape tools that are too powerful or overly complicated. “This rule of thumb goes for many types of power tools, not just hedge trimmers,” he says, explaining that operators should always want to maintain control and full functionality of the tool in their hands.

Barker advises homeowners to consult with their local professional outdoor power equipment dealer if they have questions or concerns about matching the correct hedge trimmer to their landscape needs. Knowledgeable equipment pros can explain the advantages of hedge trimmers’ various blade lengths and cutting capacities and whether a corded, gas- or battery-powered model is the right fit for the landscape challenges at hand.

With many of these points in mind and based on my nearly 20 years of writing about landscape products and topics for the professional contractor market, I would strongly suggest that homeowners seeking a practical off-the-shelf option look closely at Black and Decker’s cordless hedge trimmer. Following my first-hand experience using and testing this trimmer in my yard, I’ve concluded that Black+Decker’s LHT2240 is a testament to great things in small packages. This hedge trimmer is a prime example that being labeled “minimalistic” doesn’t mean it lacks power or capability. Rather, it’s a tool that delivers on its promises.

What is the Black and Decker Hedge Trimmer?

VIA MERCHANT

$189.99 at Amazon

We Tried It

Black+Decker Cordless Hedge Trimmer

High performance from a cordless tool.

$189.99 at Amazon

Black+Decker’s LHT2240 is a cordless, battery-powered tool for trimming hedges, shrubs, and brushes around an average-sized residential landscape. It utilizes a 40V Li-ion rechargeable battery to power a 22-inch, dual-action cutting blade with a -inch cutting capacity, sufficient for manicuring modestly sized greenery.

Right out of the box, I found the LHT2240 to be a no-frills hedge trimmer lacking some of the features and functions of competitors’ similar models. However, after taking it through its paces throughout a spring afternoon, I found the LHT2240 offers an impressive quality of cut, ease of use, a lightweight design, quiet operation, and a rather attractive price point (around $130). The Li-ion battery alone, if purchased separately, runs around $100.

How I Tested It

After donning work gloves and safety glasses, I tested Black+Decker’s cordless hedge trimmer on various shrubbery and hedge-cutting tasks around my and a neighbor’s residential landscape on a sunny May afternoon. During testing, I paid particular attention to the LHT2240’s cut quality, cutting capacity, ease and comfort of use, overall balance, and how the trimmer’s design impacted my fatigue level. I also noted any deficiencies I observed during its operation.

For example, did it vibrate excessively under strain (I found it did not), was it loud (no more than I expected it would), were the safety features sufficient (yes, but I felt the LHT2240 would benefit from a blade sheath when not in use), and was it durable (it did survive a couple of accidental drops unscathed)? Finally, after concluding my afternoon of field testing, I took a deep dive into consumer feedback to compare and contrast my performance experience with others’ observations and experiences with the LHT2240.

Black+Decker’s LHT2240 hedge trimmer is designed for grab-and-go ease, ideal for homeowners who want to tackle trimming tasks without hassle. After I ran the LHT2240 through its paces, here are the features I believe made me take notice:

Battery-Powered

Forget tangled chords or managing oil and gas mixes with a small engine. Black+Decker’s LHT2240 battery-powered engine offers the user freedom of movement throughout the landscape. When I engaged the LHT2240 in normal trimming sessions, I found a freshly charged 40V Li-ion battery provided me with around 45 minutes of runtime.

The LHT2240 is part of the Black+Decker 40V Max system, allowing users who own other 40V Max Black+Decker tools to interchange batteries across multiple products. Lastly, being battery-powered enables the LHT2240 to operate at a much lower decibel level than its gas-powered cousins. I found this beneficial, contributing to a more peaceful trimming experience.

Maneuverability

At only 6.8 pounds, the LHT2240 is easy to maneuver, and it was comfortable to hold for extended trimming sessions, giving me greater control and precision while cutting. This is a big plus compared to heavier hedge trimmers that can quickly fatigue shoulders and wrists, especially when engaged in overhead work.

The LHT2240’s wrap-around handle provided me with a safe, secure, and comfortable grip at any trimming angle I engaged, further reducing the strain on my hands and arms. A soft grip further enhanced my comfort level during extended cutting sessions.

Quality of Cut

The LHT2240’s 22-inch dual-action blades provide a precise, clean cut. In addition, I found the blade tackles branches up to -inches thick, which is enough to accommodate the various Forsythia, Boxwood, Arborvitae, Barberry, and Yews around my typical residential landscape.

Maintenance

Aside from fully charging the battery, the LHT2240 was essentially ready to go out of the box. After a few hours, I field tested the Black+Decker’s LHT2240; I didn’t have the opportunity or need to perform maintenance on my hedge trimmer. However, Black+Decker designed the LHT2240 for easy upkeep, requiring only seasonal lubrication of the blades’ moving parts, more often if excessive use occurs.

Pros

• Out-of-the-box usability
• Lightweight and maneuverable
• Quiet, low vibration
• User-friendly and intuitive
• Good quality of cut
• Cordless convenience
• Powerful enough for the average residential landscape
• Solid battery life (around 45 minutes between charges)
• Minimal regular maintenance
• Attractive to the price-conscious consumer

Cons

• Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks
• Does not include a rotating handle
• Battery and charger not always included
• Did not include a blade cover/sheath

FAQ

Can you sharpen Black+Decker hedge trimmers?

While Black+Decker indicates the blades can be sharpened and even replaced, I strongly recommend and encourage the average homeowner to allow an experienced power equipment professional to manage this task.

Do you need to oil the Black and Decker hedge trimmer blades?

Black+Decker designed the LHT2240 for easy upkeep, requiring only seasonal lubrication of the blades’ moving parts, and more often if excessive use occurs to prevent sap from gumming up the blade action. Owners can purchase a silicone-based lubricant spray, which won’t attract dirt and debris as much as a 3-in-1 machine oil lubricant.

What Other Reviewers/Experts Had to Say

Homeowners and DIYers who have used the Black+Decker LHT2240 report many of the same findings I observed during my field testing. Overall, I found consumers offer favorable reviews of the LHT2240. Many users praise the hedge trimmer’s ease of use, lightweight and comfortable design, and quiet operations. There were very few mentions of quality control issues, questionable design, or functional breakdowns.

Numerous users report that the 40V battery charges quickly and provides ample runtime to trim hedges and bushes around an average-sized property on a single charge. However, some users, and I concur, suggest investing in a second battery to accommodate longer operating times. However, purchasing a battery and charger separately could be expensive.

Black+Decker Hedge Trimmer vs. Craftsman Hedge Trimmer

To provide greater depth and perspective, I leveraged my first-hand insights with actual user experiences on trusted websites like Amazon to comprehensively compare the Black+Decker LHT2240 with the Craftsman CMEHTS8022 hedge trimmers.

Both the Black+Decker and the Craftsman are lauded for their user-friendly design. Reviewers consistently praise their lightweight construction and maneuverability, making them comfortable to handle for extended trimming sessions. Additionally, both trimmers seem well-built, sturdy, and resilient to accidental damage. From my first-hand experience, I found both the orange-and-black Black+Decker and red-and-black Craftsman hedge trimmers were constructed with the homeowner/DIYer in mind.

Both seemed well-built and solidly constructed, and their wrap-around handles felt comfortable in my hands. While both felt well-balanced, Black+Decker’s 6.8 pounds (with the battery attached) was slightly heavier than Craftsman’s 5.6 pounds. Although I did find Black+Decker’s trimmer had noticeably lower vibration when engaged with greenery, an observation other consumers also noted. Some users found the Craftsman trimmer on the loud side. However, I did not discern a noticeable difference in decibel levels between the two units.

Both models’ 22-inch dual-action blades made quick work shaping topiary throughout my and my neighbor’s yards. While the Black+Decker’s 40V battery supply provided unrestricted freedom of movement around the landscapes for around 45 minutes, Craftsman’s 3.8 Amp motor offered uninterrupted power bound only by the limitations of an extension cord’s length and an available power outlet.

Craftsman’s integrated limb cutter on the end of its reciprocating blade provided the CMEHTS8022 clear-cutting advantage over the LHT2240, an assessment many online reviewers agreed with. Craftsman’s nifty, saw-toothed tool could tackle small branches up to 1.25 inches thick, which the Black+Decker model would struggle against, leaving some users to conclude was a potential lack of power.

The Craftsman CMEHTS8022 corded hedge trimmer is a solid, affordable cutting tool that offers the DIYer a unique set of advantages for around $100. However, if you’re a homeowner who prioritizes maneuverability and all-around ease of use, then the Black+Decker LHT2240, at a price point of around $140 (less during sales and special promotions), is a clear choice. Remember, consider your needs and preferences, including hedge amount and size, how often you intend to trim, and budget as components of your due diligence before purchasing.

Final Verdict

For the average homeowner, I found the Black+Decker’s LHT2240 40V MAX Lithium-ion 22-inch cordless hedge trimmer offers a compelling combination of convenience, user-friendliness, cut quality and sufficient power for most landscape tasks. While competitors may offer extra features, I found Black+Decker’s LHT2240 is balanced, well-designed and easy to use for operators at any experience level.

The cordless design eliminates the hassle of extension cords, allowing me freedom of movement and making it convenient to accomplish various trimming tasks around my landscape. Best of all, it’s attainable at an attractive price point. If you’re a do-it-yourself homeowner seeking a reasonable and effective means to maintain your hedges, shrubs and bushes, Black+Decker’s LHT2240 is a strong contender to consider.

Where to Buy the Black+Decker Hedge Trimmer

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$189.99 at Amazon

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Black+Decker Cordless Hedge Trimmer

High performance from a cordless tool.

$189.99 at Amazon

The great news is that it’s not difficult to acquire Black+Decker’s LHT2240 hedge trimmer. I found most big-box retailers, like Walmart, carry the Black+Decker brand of outdoor power tools, as well as online retail giant, Amazon.

The post Black+Decker Hedge Trimmer Review: We Tested This High Performance Cordless Tool appeared first on Family Handyman.

After years of pulling, spraying and cursing the weeds on my property, I’ve finally switched to burning weeds with propane and could not be happier with my decision. Ahead, learn all about weed torches with pro tips from Poshusta and Tim Thompson from YouTube’s Farm Learning with Tim Thompson.

What Is a Weed Torch?

A weed torch consists of a long wand with a handle on one end and a burner cylinder head on the other. The wand is connected to a liquid propane source and ignites at the burner head. This generates an intense, concentrated heat that is then directed at weeds, killing green growth.

Weed torches come in different styles for various applications. There are single-head torches meant for smaller jobs and multi-head set-ups for large agricultural fields. Wands can have straight or curved handles. Poshusta finds curved wands more comfortable to use.

How much does a weed torch cost?

Expect to pay between $30 to $250 for a residential weed torch. Small torches that produce lower temperatures will fall on the lower end of the price range, while larger torches with a full-size propane tank and mobility system will cost much more.

Does Torching Weeds Work?

Yes, burning weeds with propane can be part of an effective management plan. The torches easily kill the green growth on weeds, but sometimes leave the root system intact. Hardier perennial and woody weeds can regrow from undisturbed root systems. “Repeated applications are necessary,” Thompson says, “but eventually, the roots will become depleted and die due to continued heat treatment.”

Weed torches are most effective at quickly killing annual weeds two to three inches tall. “Torching is most effective on small weeds with small roots,” Poshusta says. “So frequent, low-intensity application will give the best results.”

Is it Safe to Burn Weeds?

Yes, but certain precautions should be taken.

Weed torches can reach temperatures of 2000 to 2250 degrees Fahrenheit. To prevent burns, always face the torch head away from you when lighting and using it. “Be aware of the direction of the flame when using the torch, and remember that the tip will remain hot for a period of time after use,” Thompson says. Always wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, gloves and close-toed shoes during use.

To avoid inadvertently starting a fire, don’t torch weeds during dry conditions or on a windy day. Always have a water source ready to extinguish any unwanted flames. Consider torching weeds after a soaking rain to avoid sparking a brush fire. “Make sure there are no burn bans active in your location and take precautions to avoid unintended fire spread,” Poshusta says.

How to Use a Weed Torch

Using a weed torch is relatively simple, but be sure to follow all manufacturer instructions carefully.

• With all valves closed, connect the torch to the propane tank and slowly open the tank valve. Slightly open the torch valve and use a flint spark igniter to ignite the gas at the burner head. Adjust the flame size with the control knob on the torch.
• Direct the burner head toward the weeds you’d like to remove, remaining 4 to 6 in. above the ground. Apply heat in a sweeping motion across the plants until they begin to wilt, then move on to the next area. “You don’t have to completely incinerate the leaves. Simply wilting them down is often sufficient,” Poshusta says.
• Move slowly across the area, applying heat to all visible weeds. “The woodier the weeds, the slower you need to go,” Thompson says. To make it easier to use with larger propane tanks, use a tank cart to move the setup around your yard as you go.

Weed Torch Pros and Cons

Pros

A propane torch is a fast, low-effort method to get rid of weed without the use of chemicals and herbicides. “The big two advantages of heat torches are the instant results (you can literally look back at yellowing weeds as you work) and the lack of toxic chemicals,” Thompson says.

Without the presence of chemicals or residue, once burned off, neighboring beneficial plants can quickly replace unwanted weeds. This method also avoids damaging nearby plants with herbicide overspray.

“[Weed torches] are particularly useful around patios, sidewalks and other hardscape or gravel surfaces since these don’t burn,” Poshusta says. Weeds that sprout in cracks and driveways are notoriously difficult to pull can also be easily managed with a propane torch.

Cons

While a great tool for managing weeds, burning weeds with propane can cause fires if not used correctly or in overly dry, windy conditions. “You need to be careful not to use it on fire danger days,” Thompson says.

While fast and effective, killing weeds for good with a propane torch often takes several treatments.

Additionally, Poshusta points out that while this method avoids using chemical herbicides, it does require burning fossil fuel. “It also doesn’t work well when weeds are in close proximity to other plants you want to keep,” he says.

FAQs

Do weed torches kill the roots?

It depends. “Different types of weeds may respond differently to being burned. Some will die off completely and others will grow back from the roots and require another round,” Poshusta says.

Is it legal to use a propane torch?

The legality of burning weeds with propane can vary depending on local and state regulations. Always check your local laws and regulations before purchasing and using a weed torch.

About the Experts

• Tim Thompson is an Australian Agriculture educator. He hosts Farm Learning with Tim Thompson on YouTube to empower people with knowledge and skills to better manage their land. It features top farmers and practitioners who share their skills and try out new ideas and products to make life on the farm or homestead easier.
• Garrett Poshusta is one half of the husband and wife duo behind The Grit and Polish, a website devoted to home maintenance, renovation and improvement tutorials. The couple have been renovating and renting homes since 2008.

The post Can You Get Rid of Weeds with Weed Burners? appeared first on Family Handyman.

Understanding the differences between annuals, perennials, and biennials is essential knowledge for any aspiring gardener. Each type of plant has a unique life cycle and growth pattern, contributing differently to a garden’s overall aesthetics and maintenance needs.

I largely base my plant choices in my gardens around these three categories. Annuals and biennials are great for a splash of color, while perennials add substance and depth to any garden bed.

Ahead, learn all about annuals, perennials and biennials from two landscaping experts Ricky Lateurrer from Lateurrer Gardens and Landscaping and Joyce Corbett from Class Courtyards.

What Is an Annual Plant?

An annual plant completes a full life cycle in a single growing season. Annuals aim to reseed themselves and do not go dormant and return in the spring. Instead, they germinate, flower and produce seeds within a single season. These seeds then begin a new annual cycle in the spring, continuing to set seed for future plants. “Annuals are my favorite part of my garden,” Corbett says. “I have fun picking out new ones each year.”

Some annuals are perennials grown outside their normal United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Hardiness Zone. “A lot of our annuals in New England are considered perennials in the South,” Corbett says. Because they cannot withstand freezing temperatures, these ‘winter annuals’ will live in colder climates during spring and summer months and then die off in winter. They will not regrow in the spring and require annual replanting.

How long do annual plants live?

A growing season or a year, depending on the plant and climate.

When to plant annuals

“You’ll want to plant annuals in the spring,” Corbett says. When spring actually occurs will depend on the USDA Hardiness Zone in which you live. In Southern California, this could be March, whereas in Northern Maine, it would be April or May.

What are common annual plants?

Begonia, Petunia, Lantana, Impatiens, Sunflowers, Zinnias and Marigolds are popular annual flowering plants.

Does an annual plant come back every year?

No, an annual plant does not come back every year. Annuals will not regrow and need to be reseeded or replanted each year. What they lack in longevity, they make up for with long flowering periods. “I think of annuals as a seasonal decoration that spruces up a garden,” Lateurrer says.

What Is a Perennial Plant?

A perennial plant lives at least two years, but there are some that can survive for 10 to 15 years or longer once planted. Perennials grow and flower through spring, summer and fall, then go dormant during colder months.

Perennial shrubs may lose their leaves, but woody growth remains. Other perennials lose all green growth during winter, but regrow from dormant root systems.

How long do perennial plants live?

At least two to three years, but some can live for decades. Most perennial flowers live between two and ten years, while shrubs can live longer. “I’ve dug up perennials from gardens that have been there for over 20 years,” Lateurrer says.

When to plant perennials

“[Planting perennials in] either spring or fall is a good time,” Lateurrer says. “You want to avoid the heat of the summer.” If you’re excited to see flowers right away, plant in the spring. If you can wait for flowers, plant in the fall to avoid watering all summer while the plant establishes. “You’ll really save on your water bill by planting in the fall,” Corbett says.

What are common perennial plants?

Perennial flowering plants include Peony, Daylilly, Iris, Seedum, Hosta, Phlox and Lavender. Perennial shrubs include Hydrangea, Azalea, Rhododendron, Butterfly Bush, Forsythia, Lilacs and Roses.

Do perennial plants come back every year?

Yes, perennial plants come back yearly. These hard-working, low-maintenance plants come back every year for at least two years, typically more.

What Is a Biennial Plant?

Unlike annuals, biennial plants take two years to complete a full life cycle. Generally, the first season is spent growing roots, leaves and stems, while the second season is devoted to flowering, growing and setting seeds.

How long do biennial plants live?

Biennials live for two years.

When to plant biennial plants

Summer or fall are ideal times to plant biennial plants. As long as they have enough time to establish roots and some growth before a frost, they will return to flower and seed in the spring.

What are common biennial plants?

Black Eyed Susans, Hollyhocks, Foxglove, Sweet William, Honesty, Delphinium and Evening Primrose are popular choices for biennial plants.

Do biennial plants come back?

Yes, biennial plants come back. The same biennial plant will return for one season after going dormant during winter. However, biennials can reseed and continue to grow as new plants. The Black Eyed Susans I planted a few years ago keep reseeding and spreading. The original plant is not alive, but through reseeding, Black Eyed Susans return each year.

FAQs

Annuals, perennials and biennials: Can you plant them in pots?

Yes, you can plant annuals, perennials and biennials in pots. Flowering annuals can, and often are, planted in pots. Perennials and biennials are typically planted in the ground to protect dormant root systems. However, some can be grown successfully in pots. A good rule of thumb is to choose cold-tolerant plants at least two zones colder than the climate you live in. This way the root system will withstand the colder soil temperatures in a pot.

Annuals, perennials, and biennials: Which are easiest to care for?

Perennials are the easiest to care for. Once established, perennials will return year after year. Lateurrer finds perennial favorites Daylilly, Hosta and Iris to be “the most low maintenance and drought tolerant.”

About the Experts

Joyce Corbett is the owner of Classic Courtyards in West Springfield, Massachusetts. She has over forty years of landscaping design and installation experience.

Ricky Lateurrer is the owner of Lateurrer Gardens and Landscaping, a full-service residential landscaping company in Longmeadow, Massachusetts.

The post What is the Difference Between Annuals, Perennials and Biennials appeared first on Family Handyman.

Improve Entry With Black Mulch

Black mulch makes a big impact right by your front door. Seen here, this flower bed from @phoenixlsanddesign leads guests to the entrance of the home. The black mulch helps the bright flowers and plants pop against the black background, while the natural stone border keeps everything contained and tidy.

What We Like About It: This front yard proves that just a few bags of black mulch can work wonders on the overall curb appeal of your home.

The post 9 Black Mulch Landscaping Ideas appeared first on Family Handyman.

Repotting a plant is more than putting a plant in a pot. Not all plants belong in the same pot. Not all pots are adequate for all plants. Plastic, terracotta, cement, ceramic, wood? Many things to consider.

Growing a thriving plant depends on the soil and pot you choose for it. I am amazed at how many times I find a friend has a potted plant dying simply because the pot they have it in does not have a hole for drainage, the roots are rotting, and their watering schedule is off. A plant WILL tell you what it needs. You just have to observe it. Seeing roots emerge from drainage holes, roots emerge from the soil, and leaves and stems drop off all indicate that it is time to repot the plant. My assumption is that you have a great soil mix for your plant. I must, however, also share how to select the correct pot for the plant and how to create drainage in any container without a hole.

Before you repot, research the plants you will pot and what they prefer in terms of moisture, light, and pH balance. Then, according to meter readings, adjust the watering schedule, light exposure, and soil acidity. Give the plant a good watering a few days before you plan to repot it. This will help the plant have a heartier transition and loosen the roots from the walls of the old pot.

Select a potting container

Terracotta pots are always a happy home for plants because they absorb moisture and breathe with the plant. However, if the pot you choose is metal, plastic or ceramic glazed, ensure it has a hole at the bottom for proper drainage.

If your pot does not have a hole, you can easily drill one to allow water to drain properly and prevent roots from rotting or fungus and disease from developing. Use a drill bit that is appropriate for the material of your pot. Masonry bit for ceramic or terracotta. Metal bit for metal. Glass bit for glass. Acrylic or wood bit for plastic or resin. If you have to drill a hole in your pot:

• Find and mark the center point of your pot’s bottom. Place a couple of pieces of painter’s tape where you intend to drill to prevent chipping or cracking, especially in glass or ceramic.
• Drill through the bottom or turn it upside down and drill downward. Either way, ensure you have a sacrificial piece of wood supporting where you will drill through to prevent the drill from blowing out the material and creating any further damage to the pot.
• When drilling through glass, ceramics, terracotta, or plaster, add water to cool the bit and prevent the powder of the material from becoming airborne. If you are drilling through metal, a couple of drops of oil will do the same to lubricate the bit and material.

The post How To Repot a Plant appeared first on Family Handyman.

Those who are familiar with utility-task vehicles (UTV) know that Polaris is a trusted name in the industry. The company, which began making snowmobiles in the 1950s, designs and manufactures everything from motorcycles and pontoon boats to ATVs and side-by-side utility-task vehicles.

Their 2025 Ranger lineup includes customer-driven improvements like increased durability, better transmission and more included features like a 7-inch display console and built-in sound system from JBL (which is one of our favorite home speaker companies).

I got to try out the premium and ultimate versions of the 2025 Polaris NorthStar myself to get a feel for the performance and functionality of these home improvement powerhouses.

What is the Polaris Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar?

Ranger is a brand of side-by-side off-road vehicles that look like a pick-up truck, but are closer to the size of a golf cart. They have power steering, gas and brake pedals, gear shift, and bench seating in the cab, a reinforced front bumper and grille, and a large truck bed that can be tilted up with a simple latch system.

The Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar is equipped with a closed cab thats decked out with heating and air conditioning, a plethora of cup holders and storage, a console with GPS and trail maps, and built-in speakers that can connect to your phone. Paired with the 82-horsepower engine, 2,500 pound towing capacity and 1,000 pound carrying capacity, the Polaris NorthStar can be used to assist with lawn maintenance on large residential properties, daily chores on farms and ranches, and even getting docks and boats in and out of the water.

The powerful and thoughtful design of this revamped Ranger is something to behold. I found it to not only have the versatility and strength to tackle just about any outdoor chore, but itll also keep you comfortable while you do it.

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WE TRIED IT

Polaris Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar

Striking the perfect balance between comfort and performance, the 2025 Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar from Polaris is the ultimate maintenance tool for your property.

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Polaris Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar Product Features

Closed Cab

One of the best aspects of this UTV is the completely enclosed cab. Riding around in the NorthStar on a Texas ranch meant a lot, and I mean a lot, of kicked-up dirt, dust, mud and water, which would have been pretty miserable without the closed cab and filtered air system.

In addition to clean air, you can also adjust the Polaris NorthStars temperature with heating and air conditioning. The former was a lifesaver in the Texas heat and the latter will make early morning snow removal a much more enjoyable experience. If you want to appreciate some good weather or coordinate with someone outside the vehicle, you can always roll down the windows. The ultimate NorthStar has power windows while the premium has crank windows. For even more flexibility, the ultimate NorthStar has a tip-out windshield thatll make you feel like youre in an open cab.

I also really appreciate the thoughtfulness of the cabs design. The bench seats and rear-hinged doors allow for easy in and out, which is really handy when working on a project. Plus, the LED headlights switch is conveniently located to the left of the steering wheel so you can quickly illuminate what youre working on, even when youre out of the UTV.

Included Tech

The ultimate edition of the Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar comes standard with some pretty cool electronics, the first being a 7-inch touchscreen display with Ride Command. This free program is an integrated GPS system where you can load existing trails, map new trails, view and communicate with other Polaris vehicles or snowmobiles, utilize a backup camera and, of course, see drive information like the speed, gas level and direction. To take things to the next level, you can add a Ride Command+ subscription that provides vehicle maintenance and diagnostic information so your ride stays in tip-top shape.

Also included with the ultimate edition is an all-new sound system backed up by JBL speakers. I can attest that these speakers sound great and are loud. Youll have no trouble hearing the radio or streaming music while riding or working outside the UTV. You can connect your phone via Bluetooth to sync with Ride Command to listen to music and get texts and calls, or plug in your phone with the USB port when youre low on battery.

Power and Durability

A big selling point for the 2025 Polaris Ranger line is the upgraded front end. The redesigned front bumper and grille are larger and more durable than previous iterations, for improved performance and appearance. Attached to the front end is a heavy-duty winch with a synthetic rope and auto-stop feature that will make light work of downed trees, loading items onto a trailer or pulling yourself or another vehicle out of a stuck spot.

With an 82-horsepower engine and new Gen 2 transmission, the Polaris Ranger XP 1000s shift easily between gears and can reach up to 60 miles per hour. When paired with the units three throttle control modes (performance, standard, work) you can expect to power over rough terrain and steep slopes, and have more acceleration control.

The NorthStar ultimate and premium are now equipped with 29-inch wheels and four-wheel, two-wheel and one-wheel drive, the latter of which can be used to preserve wet grass or other fragile ground from being torn up while you work. The larger wheels and 14-inch ground clearance mean you can stay dry when driving through flooded fields or low waterways.

Versatility and Add-Ons

There are almost endless uses for the Polaris Ranger NorthStar. The large cargo box can hold up to a thousand pounds and has a simple lever latch that allows you to tip the box up. This is incredibly helpful when moving heavy rocks, transporting and laying mulch, or planting trees and other large plants around your property.

The cargo box also has corrugated sides and bed to securely hold storage containers and tool boxes or partition the bed into separate sections. Additionally, hitch a trailer to the back and use the 2,500 pound towing capacity to move heavy equipment, lawn tools, decking or even a light boat.

Like there are many ways to upgrade a utility trailer, there are a ton of add-ons and accessories available for the Ranger NorthStar line. From storage racks and bed extenders to hydraulic lifts, generators and covers, Polaris has all the gear you can imagine on their website and Amazon. Two of my favorite add-ons are the snow plow and trash can hauler which turn cumbersome chores into a fun (and productive!) ride. If youre not quite sure which accessories would work best for you, Polaris offers six packages that filter down common tools and add-ons for large properties, farm work, hunting, trail riding and winter prep.

How We Tested It

I got the chance to test out the Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar premium and ultimate vehicles at a ranch in Texas. I drove the premium NorthStar (the unit without a dash display and speakers) for about five hours and the ultimate (with those features) for about an hour and a half, mostly off-road. This included rocky ground, dusty trails, low waterways and up and down steep slopes. Heres what I thought.

Ride Performance

Starting to ride this side-by-side couldnt have been easier. After hopping into the UTV, I just turned the key, pushed the gear shift and started driving. I started off on a dusty dirt road, and can this thing move. Though the top speed is 60 miles per hour, even going half that made me feel like I was flying. This would be incredibly convenient for those with especially large properties to move around in a flash.

Once I switched over to off-trail riding, the strength of the Ranger NorthStar really shined. Despite being met with rocky earth that verged on boulders, the vehicle in four-wheel drive powered through without missing a beat. I was actually pretty impressed with how smooth the ride was, given the uneven terrain. Dont get me wrong, there were certainly bumps, but I never felt jolted or overly jostled, likely because of the larger tires and dual a-arm suspension.

When I was met with steep up or downward slopes, I tried out the performance and work throttles. When engaged, these modes definitely gave the UTV more power and control when moving up and down steep hills. Rather than sliding down or back a big decline/incline, the Ranger gripped the road and moved evenly, even when moving slowly.

Speaking of grip, I also drove the side-by-side through a few flooded spots on the trail as well as a flooded road. Though the water was about a foot deep, the vehicle had no problem driving through the water. It should be noted that even with the large tires, high clearance and sealed suspension, if you drive through water higher than the clearance, you will get a bit of moisture in the floor of the cab. Thats fairly high, though, and I didnt experience any water issues during my drive.

Something that I particularly enjoyed about riding these Rangers was the improved powered steering. The vehicle was incredibly easy to navigate, and even surprisingly nimble with a 160-inch turning radius. I could definitely see these side-by-sides being incredibly useful in cleaning up and maintaining a large home property.

Comfort

When it comes to creature comforts, it doesnt get much better than the Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar. When I first saw the bench seats and small, glass-mounted headrests, I was a bit nervous about how my body would feel after a few hours of driving. My fears were unfounded though, and I was pleasantly surprised at how comfortable I was. If youre planning on riding around all day, every day, I could see you wanting to add more lumbar support or an extra seat cushion (our favorite seat cushion is in this list of the best car accessories), but more casual users will be perfectly content with the bench alone. The steering wheel can be tilted front and back, so it can be adjusted for drivers of different heights and sizes.

One of the best parts of this vehicle is the closed cab and climate control. As I mentioned, I drove the side-by-side off-road in Texas, which meant very hot and dusty rides. The HVAC system kept about 99% of the debris out (I had just a touch of dirt around my sunglass line and in my nostrils after several hours of driving). The air conditioning was an actual lifesaver. Even though it was only mid-April, it was extremely hot and sunny out and the air conditioning in the cab worked quickly and consistently to keep me cool. I can only imagine how great the heating element would be in the winter months, especially if you have to do some early morning plowing.

For the time I was able to drive the ultimate model, I made full use of the JBL speaker system and display screen. Using Bluetooth, my iPhone connected with little effort and I cranked the tunes. My music could be easily heard over the rumble of the engine and clearly heard outside the cab when the doors were open. When it comes to the touchscreen display, my favorite part was seeing the other Rangers in my group driving the trail through Ride Command. If you have multiple Polaris vehicles on a farm or together for an off-roading trip, making sure everyone is accounted for is a huge safety plus.

For those who are only interested in owning one Ranger NorthStar, I understand going with the paired-down premium version, without the display and sound system. This was the model I drove the most and it was great. Its certainly more utilitarian and cheaper (the premium Ranger NorthStar is five grand less than the ultimate) but I will say I did miss the additional tech of the ultimate after switching back to the premium. Theres just something about riding around with the music blasting!

Usability

The 2025 line has all the functionality and versatility of the Rangers previous iterations, plus a few bells and whistles. On the front of the side-by-side is a new front bumper and grille that will protect the front of the cab (and, well, you) from bumps and hits while driving as well as when pulling something on the winch. The winch itself is built into the UTV with a synthetic rope to resist fraying and a handy auto-stop thatll keep the end of the rope from being rolled into the winch. Plus, the winch is remote-controlled, so you can pull or release items from a safe distance.

At the back of the Ranger, the bed can be titled up with a lever near the middle of the vehicle. I was surprised how easily the bed lifted once unlatched, thanks to the added hydraulics. This means moving and dumping rocks, dirt, feed or sand are much more manageable tasks than if you had a wheelbarrow alone. Also, if you add a winch to the top of the cab, you can pull large logs or game hands-free into the bed, which will totally save your back. Once tiled up, you can get a good look at the upgraded ProStar engine and can perform routine maintenance as needed.

As I mentioned before, the bed of the truck has grooves along the bottom and up the sides to more securely hold storage bins, tool boxes and coolers. You can also partition the bed with a couple of boards as dividers. Additionally, there are round and rectangular holes all along the top of the walls where you can install storage or tool racks, mounts, a bed extender or flag pole, the options are extensive. An example of how thoughtful the design of this side-by-side is the inclusion of four cupholder spots on the tailgate so you can keep your beverage close as you work outside the vehicle.

Pros

• Closed cab with effective air filtration and climate control
• Powerful engine with lots of control
• Smoother ride
• JBL sound system standard on ultimate
• Very versatile
• Display includes GPS, trails and tracking other Polaris products

Cons

• Expensive
• Might be overkill if you have a smaller property, or only casually hunt or trail ride
• Add-ons can be pricey, especially when purchasing multiple

FAQ

What’s the difference between a Polaris Ranger 1000 and a Polaris Ranger 1000 XP?

According to the Polaris website, the Ranger 1000 and Ranger 1000 XP are very similar, but the 1000 XP has a newer engine with more horsepower (82 hp vs. 61 hp) as well as better seats, suspension and ground clearance.

How fast does a Polaris Ranger XP 1000 go?

The Polaris Ranger XP 1000 has a top speed of 60 mph, so you can zip around a farm or large property (or between multiple properties) in a snap.

How much does a Polaris Ranger Northstar weigh?

The Polaris NorthStar is an estimated 1913 pounds with a payload capacity of 1275 pounds.

Are Polaris Rangers reliable?

Yes, Rangers are reliable, Polaris is one of the top brands in the UTV industry. In addition to the durability upgrades for the 2025 line, Polaris also offers 1-year limited and 1-year factory warranty for these vehicles. You can also purchase additional or extended coverage with the Polaris Protection Plan which covers mechanical and electric parts, repairs, trip protection and vehicle pickup.

Can-Am vs Polaris

The most similar product on the market to the Polaris NorthStar ultimate is the Defender Limited from Cam-Am. These UTVs are closed cabs that seat 3 with same horsepower, ground clearance, box capacity, towing capacity and wheel drive options, and both have a dump bed, rear camera, tilt windshield with wipers, LED headlights and lots of add-on options. The Defender and Ranger are also similar in overall size. The base Cam-Am Defender costs $29,899 and the base Polaris NorthStar ultimate is $32,999 (the premium version comes in at $27,999).

While both UTVs have a display screen, the Polaris NorthStars is much more sophisticated. For one, its a large touchscreen that can display GPS coordinates and directions, driving information and control the music. The Defenders display, on the other hand, is a rectangle above the steering wheel that only displays driving information. Similarly, the Defender’s HVAC control is a single knob for the temperature and fan levels, whereas the NorthStar has separate knobs and a defrost switch.

The Defender does not come with a sound system standard, like the Ranger NorthStar ultimate does, but one can be added when building your vehicle for an additional $930-1,120.

If the upgraded tech isnt enough to sway you to the Polaris NorthStar, Id recommend testing each of these vehicles out for yourself at a local dealership. They are so close in specs and price, your personal ride experience and needs are even more important.

Final Verdict

If you have a large property or farm, multiple properties, trail ride, hunt or just work on a ton of outdoor chores, the Polaris 100 XP NorthStar ultimate or premium are definitely worth the high price tag. The vehicles are so versatile, especially with add-ons, and the closed cab and HVAC allow you to work all year round. Paired with the stellar tech and sound system of the ultimate edition, this is a top-tier tool.

Where to Buy the Polaris Ranger NorthStar

You can purchase the 2025 Polaris Ranger NorthStar ultimate and premium at a local dealership. You can also customize your UTV on the Polaris website and then be connected to dealer close to you to fulfill your order. RANGER add-ons, replacements, accessories and merch can be purchased on the Polaris store or Amazon storefront.

VIA MERCHANT

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WE TRIED IT

Polaris Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar

Striking the perfect balance between comfort and performance, the 2025 Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar from Polaris is the ultimate maintenance tool for your property.

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The post We Tested the 2025 Polaris Ranger Lineup and The NorthStar is Worth Every Penny appeared first on Family Handyman.

I love plants and quickly realized that my plants do better when I make my own potting soil. It is part science and part green thumb instinct not brain surgery!

I used to purchase potting soil in a bag off the shelf, and after some plants failed, I decided to get a soil meter. The pH balance of potting soil out of a bag was often too high or too low. I found that by mixing my own soil, I can better control the pH balance in my dirt and help my potted plants thrive in the elements where I place them. After getting a soil meter, I quickly learned I could change the pH by adding acidity in the form of coffee grounds. First, let me share how I mix my potting soil, along with some green thumb tips to help your leafy friends thrive.

These are gardening hacks for mixing potting soil for plants needing more moisture and/or repotting for plants requiring less moisture, such as succulents and cacti. Small adjustments in each recipe make all the difference in the world to your plants. Different plants prefer different pH balances or acidities in the mixture. Take the time to research the plants you will pot and what they prefer. Adjust ratios and eliminate or remove materials as you see fit to create the best potting soil for your plant.

DIY potting soil recipe:

• 1-part loam soil, commonly called garden soil
• 2-parts sphagnum peat moss or coco coir fiber
• 1-1/2-parts perlite
• 1/2-cup of sand
• 1/2-teaspoon of lime (only if you are using peat moss)
• 1-teaspoon of granular organic fertilizer
• 1-teaspoon of bone meal
• Worm castings – follow the recommended ratio from the manufacturer
• 1-part vermiculite (for succulents and cactus)

The post How To Make Potting Soil appeared first on Family Handyman.

In this TikTok video making the rounds on landcaping-Tok, a couple shows off a clever planting hack they used to efficiently add 128 plants to their home’s landscape. In it, they use a wooden jig with a circle cut out of the middle to:

• burn a circular hole in the landscape fabric;
• auger a hole into the ground;
• place a plant inside; and then
• remove the jig, along with the excess dirt the jig is holding.

Anyone who’s ever been tasked with putting multiple large plants into the ground knows how laborious that process can be, so this is a tempting, un-messy solution.

“This helps not only with backfilling after planting, but also containing the remaining soil nicely to dispose of it rather than spreading it out over the weed fabric,” says Greg Niewold, owner of Power Planter, Inc.

Overall, the planting hack is clever, which is likely why this video is going viral. However, several elements must be considered when using this method.

What To Watch Out For If You Use a Wooden Jig for Planting

• Burning landscape fabric with a torch is not good for your health or the environment. Instead, says Niewold, use a box knife to cut an X in the fabric, which is also better for weed prevention.
• The jig will cost a bit of money to build, but is only useful for one size of plant container and can’t be used to plant multiple plants that are clumped together, says Niewold.
• The jig would likely not work on an incline or if it were sitting atop mulch or landscape rock because dirt would get under the box.
• The diameter of the hole relative to the size of the plant appears to be on the small side. It should be at least two, but up to four times bigger than the plant in order to give the roots optimal room for growth. This is especially important in clay soils.
• Compost or other nutrient-rich amendments should be added to the hole prior to planting, and it’s important to lightly break the plant root ball. (It’s possible that they were doing this but just didn’t show it in the video editing.)

Beyond those considerations, the landscape fabric appears to be incorrect, says Jeremy Martin of Willow Gates Landscaping. The video shows a nearly waterproof fabric, but home weed barrier should be more porous to let water flow through. Martin actually recommends not using a weed barrier at all, except for in gravel-mulched yards.

“Weed barrier doesn’t really stop weeds, period,” he says. “It’s an unnecessary add-on that is promoted by suppliers and/or contractors looking to find an additional sale and has little value under organic mulches.”

How to Make a Wooden Jig for Planting

To make the jig, use a circular saw to cut the square board and sides and a jigsaw to cut the circle and the handholds. Screw in the sidewalls, leaving a gap in the corner where dirt can be dumped out. An exterior sealer would also help protect it from moisture from the dirt. “Making a box jig like this would be a great weekend project,” says Niewold.

About the Experts

• Greg Niewold owns Power Planter, Inc., which makes garden-friendly earth augers and was founded by his grandfather more than 50 years ago. Niewold has also taught high school agriculture, industrial technology, woodworking and carpentry.
• Jeremy Martin is owner of Willow Gates Landscaping in Mohnton, Pennsylvania, which he founded in 2005. He shares his passion for the industry by teaching installer courses, plus speaking at industry events.

The post Transform Your Landscape With This Genius TikTok Planting Hack appeared first on Family Handyman.

Replacing the handle of a shovel or yard tool is one of those projects you dont consider ’til you have a broken handle in your hand. Ugh! I never thought of replacing a shovel handle until I walked past the assortment of handles at the hardware store and realized I had a shovel I needed to replace the handle for.

Next time your shovel handle breaks, you’ll have a choice. You can either spend $50 (or more) to replace the tool or spend $20 to buy a new handle and replace it yourself. In addition to cost savings, it is a very satisfying fix. So let’s do this!

Parts of a shovel

Remove the shovel rivets

Secure the shovel head collar and handle in a vise or with clamps. Holding the shovel collar and handle in place with clamps or vise will make this process easier and safer. Never do this fix holding the shovel in your hands alone.

Tap out the rivet/pin cap with a cold chisel (for metal). The goal is to create space to get the head of the rivet to protrude enough to access and easily cut off. Using an angle grinder or a handheld metal hack saw, cut the head of the rivet/pin off. Clear what remains of the rivet/pin out of the hole in the handle and shovel collar. You may have to use a 3/16-in. metal punch or a nail set to force out the rivet/pin.

If you have two rivets/pins in your shovel, repeat the same process to get the handle fully released. Some handles may have a nail or screws driven in from both sides. Either way, a cold chisel will help you pull them out, and you may not need an angle grinder to cut the head.

The post How To Replace the Handle of a Shovel (And Other Garden Tools) appeared first on Family Handyman.

Fiesta Flora Combo

Combination: Salvia, Ligustrum, Lantana, Weeping Loropetalum, Everillo

For a container bursting with bold shapes and colors, try mixing Southern Living’s Saucy Red Salvia, Sunshine Ligustrum, Pot of Gold Little Lucky Lantana, Purple Pixie Dwarf Weeping Loropetalum and Carex EverColor Everillo.

The saliva’s sizzling scarlet red flower spikes attract hummingbirds and butterflies, says gardening author and TV personality Linda Vater. Then the vibrant golden Ligustrum brings structure and a burst of sunshine, while the spiky everillo’s lime-green foliage adds texture and movement.

“The lantana also adds a waterfall of color with a profusion of clusters filled with delicate yellow flowers throughout the summer,” says Vater. “And the Loropetalum tumbles elegantly over the edges.”

The post 11 Plant Combination Ideas for Container Gardens appeared first on Family Handyman.

Imagine how unpleasant taking a bath in a dirty tub would be. That’s how the birds in your backyard feel when their birdbath isn’t kept clean. Cleaning birdbaths properly is important to create an appealing environment for birds and ensure their safety. A safe and effective method is to use a mixture of white vinegar and water. Vinegar has the power to eliminate algae without posing any harm to the birds. Bleach or other harsh chemicals, on the other hand, are not recommended, as they can leave toxic residues that can harm birds and disrupt the delicate ecosystem. Neglecting to maintain a clean birdbath can have severe consequences for birds.

As we welcome the arrival of spring, it’s an excellent opportunity to give the birds a sparkling clean birdbath. The birdbath I cleaned was made of concrete, a popular choice for these types of baths. I even know people who have used concrete to make a birdbath themselves. I grabbed some supplies, rolled up my sleeves and got to work, and believe it or not, I had that bath squeaky clean in under 20 minutes! And hey, with some regular TLC, I bet it’ll be even quicker next time.

Rinse the birdbath

Quickly rinse the birdbath with a high-pressure garden hose nozzle to remove any loose dirt and debris. When done, dump out the remaining water.

The post How To Clean a Birdbath the Right Way appeared first on Family Handyman.