Category: Brandpoint Home & Garden

2024-04-11T12:53:00

(BPT) – Throughout the year, golf tournaments captivate audiences excited to watch the pros do what they do best: play golf! As viewers tune in to see their favorite athletes compete on pristine golf courses, they may dream of replicating this championship-level fairway quality in their backyard.

Are you ready to turn your backyard into a golfer’s dream? TruGreen, the official lawn care treatment provider of the PGA TOUR, has you covered with these five expert tips to make your lawn as beautiful as a world-class golf course.

1. The foundation is underfoot

The key to a healthy, green lawn is rooted in nutrient-rich soil. Premium soil fosters a healthy lawn that can withstand drought, ward off disease and pests, and develop a deep, sturdy root system.

Although the perfect soil composition varies based on grass type, a well-rounded mix of water, air, minerals, and essential nutrients is crucial.

2. Maintain a meticulous mowing schedule

Lawn care is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and the same goes for mowing schedules. The growth of your grass is influenced by various elements, such as prevailing weather and the local climate conditions. As such, you should plan to keep an eye on your lawn and mow it as necessary instead of following a specific schedule. For the most effective mow, adjust your mower to its maximum height setting, mow your lawn with sharp blades, and avoid mowing when the grass is damp.

Another great rule of thumb? Follow the “one-third” rule: aim to mow often enough so that you’re only cutting one-third of the grass blade during any single mowing.

3. Water is welcome

When you water your grass, you’re helping transport necessary nutrients around the roots to the grass blades, ensuring they stay alive and healthy. Watering also improves your lawn’s tolerance against normal wear and tear and foot traffic by boosting firmness and supporting seed germination.

Most turf grasses require about 1 inch of water per week via rainfall or intentional watering. A great watering guideline is to prioritize quality over quantity. Essentially, when you water your lawn, focus on the amount of water applied versus the frequency at which you water.

4. Don’t wait to remove the weeds!

Can you think of anything more annoying than weeds on your lawn? Well, get this: they are likely already disrupting the health of your lawn before you can even spot them.

When approaching weed removal, it’s important to first identify the type of weeds on your lawn. You can avoid the guesswork by consulting a professional to treat weeds early and prevent them from becoming an even bigger problem. Once you know what you’re dealing with, you can determine the best action for removal such as digging by hand or pouring boiling water on them.

To keep stubborn weeds at bay, ensure you are maintaining a healthy, dense lawn that doesn’t allow room for weeds to flourish.

5. Don’t want to do it yourself? Leave it to the pros

“While your pursuit of the perfect swing might leave little room for taking care of your lawn, you don’t have to give up on your dream outdoor space just yet,” says Brian Feldman, TruGreen’s senior director of technical operations. “TruGreen provides tailored plans to meet your yard’s specific needs year-round so you can spend more time playing on your PGA TOUR-level lawn instead of maintaining it.”

These basic lawn care tips are sure to help get things off the ground, but they are just the beginning of your journey to a PGA TOUR-worthy backyard. For more advanced lawn care tasks such as aeration or pest control, learn more about TruGreen’s lawn care service offerings at TruGreen.com.

2024-04-09T10:41:01

(BPT) – Investing in real estate can be a smart choice, but not all investments are created equal. There’s no denying rental properties are a surging market. Mortgage interest rates have risen dramatically over the past few years, high enough to price many people out of purchasing a home. It means the demand for rental properties is high. You don’t have to be an economist to see it — there’s a crane on every corner, and new apartment buildings are popping up everywhere.

For many investors, tapping into this surging market means buying duplexes, fourplexes or single-family homes. But with them comes the hassle of becoming a landlord. Fixing appliances when they break down, arranging for snow removal and yard work, dealing with tenant complaints or worse, going through the exhausting process of evicting someone when the arrangement just isn’t working. You’re suddenly the building’s maintenance technician in addition to being the owner.

Institutionally sized real estate projects like apartment buildings or condo developments don’t come with those kinds of hassles for their owners, as those responsibilities fall to property management companies. But in the past, they have been out of reach for individuals.

That’s not the case today. Investors who are thinking about getting into real estate can think bigger than a duplex. There’s an emerging investment model that gives private investors access to institutionally sized real estate projects, reaping returns and depreciation benefits without the management headaches.

Roers Companies is a national leader in real estate development, construction and property management that was founded to change the game for everyday investors. They’re on a mission to elevate multifamily housing by developing and operating market-rate, workforce, active 55+ and affordable housing in highly desired neighborhoods nationwide.

Rather than focusing on institutional equity to fund that mission, Roers Companies chooses to work with individuals.

Some quick facts about Roers Companies:

• 17 completed projects sold since 2019 with an average hold time of 3.5 years
• Nearly 12,000 rental units and 83 projects developed and under construction
• $510M+ equity raised through 850+ investor partnerships
• $2.9B in real estate since 2012

At a high level, to be considered an accredited investor, you need to meet one of the following:

• Have a net worth over $1 million, not including their primary residence
• Income over 200,000 (individually) or 300,000 (with spouse or partner) in each of the prior two years, and reasonably expect the same for this year

That kind of wealth criteria makes it possible for a whole tier of investors to buy into institutional-level real estate projects for the opportunity to receive high returns on that investment.

If you compare the performance of a $10,000 investment in stocks, real estate investment trust (REIT) and multifamily real estate over the course of 20 years, you can see that the growth in multifamily outperforms other asset types. Multifamily real estate investments also tend to offer less volatility than stocks or REITs.

Part of the reason for Roers Companies’ success lies in their business model. They don’t just manage properties or build them. Their internal capabilities include development, construction, leasing, property management and asset management. This vertical integration means that Roers Companies is able to achieve significant cost savings and efficiencies that companies with a single area of expertise cannot match. With a close watch on local markets, strong industry relationships, and a robust evaluation and approval protocol, their process refines and strengthens each opportunity offered to investors for consideration.

It’s an outgrowth of Co-Founder and Co-Owner Kent Roers’ recognition of what he calls “the missing middle” — everyday investors wanting access to institutionally sized real estate projects, but settling for buying houses or duplexes instead. Yes, they could buy into a REIT, but their performance is often correlated to the stock market — the highs and lows of stocks will follow for REITs. The business model Kent and his brother Brian built bridges that gap, giving private investors an opportunity for significant returns and a seat at the — much bigger — table typically reserved for large financial institutions.

Market conditions have pushed many companies out of the new-development arena in the past 18 months while Roers Companies’ private investors have made new projects possible. Because of that, their projects are under construction and will be ready to welcome residents and collect rent just in time for the institutional-reliant developers to hit reset on their projects in high-growth neighborhoods starved for supply.

The demand for rental housing shows no signs of subsiding, ensuring long-term stability and growth within the multifamily sector. This sustained demand, coupled with the anticipated cost reductions, presents a compelling opportunity for investors seeking attractive returns in the real estate market. To find out more about this unique direct-investment model, contact Roers Companies.

Photos by Spacecrafting

2024-04-08T12:13:00

(BPT) – The spring is a great time of year to start tackling the DIY projects you’ve been putting off all winter. If you plan to roll up your sleeves this season, you’re part of a growing trend. DIY projects top many spring to-do lists this year and outdoor projects are a big priority for individuals across the nation. Home improvement leader Lowe’s has found that 34% of customers plan to take on projects related to outdoor living, from adding plants, flowers and seasonal décor to updating their patio furniture. Additionally, 40% say they plan to focus their time and efforts on their home’s exterior — including maintenance and lawn repair.

And now, DIY projects just got even easier thanks to DoorDash’s new partnership with Lowe’s. With over 1,700 Lowe’s stores available nationwide directly on the DoorDash app, you can now shop your favorite Lowe’s items from the comfort of your own home! This means less time running errands and more time making your dream home a reality.

Seasoned DIYers know that whether it’s freshening up your patio with a coat of paint, planting new blooms, or landscaping the backyard, there’s a right way and a wrong way to do the project. Most have learned from experience that a little planning at the outset can save you time and money in the long run.

Here are six tips from DoorDash and Lowe’s for making your outdoor DIY projects go smoothly.

Make a plan and prioritize. Before you start tilling up the yard and pulling out the weeds, sit down and create a detailed plan for the project. This should include a list of what projects you want to tackle, the tools and materials you need to get the job done, a realistic assessment of whether you can do it yourself or if you’ll need a pro, and roughly how long it’s going to take from start to finish.

Remember the little things. How much household disruption is the project going to cause? Do you need to send the dog to daycare while you dig up the lawn? Have you called the city about hidden power lines? Will you have to turn off the water, and if so, have you filled a gallon jug or two to get you by? Little things like this can derail a project if you don’t anticipate them beforehand.

Set a budget. It can be very easy to accidentally exceed the scope of the project — and the cost — if you’re not careful. First you’re simply sprucing up the garden, but a few bags of mulch and a pile of pavers later, you’re creating a whole new patio complete with a brand new outdoor furniture set. Avoid this landslide by deciding how much you can comfortably spend on the project, and stick to that number. Be sure to take advantage of promotions and deals whenever you can to help you stretch your budget. Lowe’s offers a lineup of great spring products at an outstanding value! From now through April 14, customers can get $20 off their first order of $45+ from Lowe’s with code LOWES20 on DoorDash.* Plus, DoorDash users can enjoy even more savings, with Lowe’s biggest annual SpringFest deals available nationwide, now through May 1, helping customers save on all the essentials needed to tackle spring — from power tools and lawn care to appliances and décor.

Keep the DoorDash app open. DIYers, rejoice! DoorDash’s newest partnership means the end of running to Lowe’s in the middle of the project when you inevitably find you forgot a crucial piece of the puzzle. Get everything from tools to garden supplies, to paint and much more delivered through DoorDash directly to your doorstep in an hour on average** — thanks to everyone’s favorite on-demand delivery platform. And, all participating Lowe’s stores will also be available on DashPass, DoorDash’s membership program that offers members a $0 delivery fee and reduced service fee on eligible orders from thousands of restaurants, grocery and convenience stores nationwide.***

Break it down into tasks. You know what they say, a long journey starts with a single step. This also applies to DIY projects. An enormous undertaking can feel overwhelming, but a series of smaller tasks? That’s doable. The best part? You can now schedule the delivery of all your essentials so that they’re at your doorstep before you start your project!

Ask for help. Bit off more than you can chew? Don’t have the expertise to do the job right? Circle back and get the help you need, whether it’s the handy guy down the street, or a licensed professional.

Follow these tips and your DIY projects will go quickly and smoothly, leaving you with more time to enjoy your spruced-up nest this spring and beyond.

For more information on the latest news and promotions, visit DoorDash.com and Lowes.com.

*Offer valid through 04/14/24 on your first order placed at participating Lowes locations. Valid only on orders with a minimum subtotal of $45, excluding fees and taxes. Maximum value of discount is $20. Discount applies to subtotal only; does not apply to fees, taxes, and gratuity. Not valid for pickup. Limit one per person. Fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. Use promo code LOWES20 to redeem. See full terms and conditions at https://drd.sh/8ONpZP/.

**Based on average delivery time. Delivery times may vary and are not guaranteed.

***DashPass benefits apply only to eligible orders that meet the minimum subtotal requirement listed on DoorDash for each participating merchant. Other fees (including service fee), taxes, and gratuity still apply. After signing up for DashPass, you will be charged the then-current renewal price (plus applicable taxes) automatically on a recurring basis until you cancel. DashPass terms (including how to cancel) here.

2024-03-27T15:37:00

(BPT) – It’s a virtuous cycle: communities that are economically vibrant create good jobs that support homeownership, and homeownership builds generational wealth that supports entrepreneurship and business investment.

In traditionally underserved and disadvantaged communities, though, the opposite can be true, leading to financial stagnation and a lack of opportunity for individuals and businesses.

Many community-focused financial institutions are working to counteract this negative cycle by investing in economic development and breaking down barriers to homeownership. And they do it by relying on a behind-the-scenes partner: their regional Federal Home Loan Bank.

The role of FHLBanks

Congress established the Federal Home Loan Bank System, a network of 11 regional FHLBanks, in 1932 to ensure liquidity for financial institutions such as building and loan associations and insurance companies during the Great Depression. By Congressional design, the FHLBanks are cooperatively owned and privately capitalized by their members — commercial banks, credit unions, insurance companies and community development financial institutions — and provide members with ready access to competitively priced liquidity or loans known as advances, financial products and services, and resources for targeted community and economic development.

Community Commerce Bank, a community development financial institution founded in 1976 to meet credit needs in underserved East Los Angeles, has found success partnering with FHLBank San Francisco, which serves members in Arizona, California and Nevada.

Since its founding, Community Commerce Bank has loaned more than $4 billion to its customers, and the organization is both profitable and deeply engaged in the community, demonstrating the viability and impact of inner-city lending. Bank president Mike Lasher attributes this in part to their access to advances, which refer to loans or lines of credit that are extended to another bank or member institution to satisfy short-term liquidity needs. “Our membership in FHLBank San Francisco gives us quick access to advances, allowing us to promptly meet the dynamic needs of our customers and bridging the gap between the lending timeline and deposit schedule,” said Lasher. “This facilitates increased investment in the local community and enables us to support important initiatives that make a real difference in people’s lives in Los Angeles County.”

Partnering to promote homeownership and economic development

In addition to providing reliable, low-cost liquidity that boosts community lending, FHLBanks offer a variety of community grant programs that their members can deploy to address the specific needs of their local communities. Many of these programs are designed to support affordable, sustainable homeownership for low-to-moderate-income individuals and families.

FHLBank San Francisco’s WISH downpayment assistance program, for example, offers 4-to-1 matching grants that eligible first-time homebuyers can apply to down payment and closing costs. Since 2000, when the first homebuyer received a matching grant through the Bank’s homeownership programs, participating FHLBank San Francisco member lenders disbursed $146 million in WISH funds to more than 9,700 low-to-moderate-income homebuyers.

Another initiative is the Empowering Black Homeownership program, which FHLBank San Francisco introduced in 2022 and renewed in 2023. This program matches member institutions’ grants to housing counseling agencies that serve aspiring and at-risk homeowners in communities of color, helping to support homeownership and intergenerational wealth building.

And in 2023, FHLBank San Francisco launched a $10 million Middle-Income Downpayment Assistance pilot program to help middle-income households that are struggling to achieve homeownership amid high home prices and interest rates.

Other grant programs promote economic development in low-to-moderate-income communities. For example, FHLBank San Francisco members partner with community nonprofits to deliver AHEAD grants to support innovative, targeted initiatives that generate new economic opportunity. In 2023, FHLBank San Francisco awarded $4 million in AHEAD grants to 75 local organizations — for initiatives ranging from microenterprise projects and job training to financial education and support for Native American communities — throughout the bank’s three-state footprint.

“These grant programs are just a few examples illustrating FHLBank San Francisco’s commitment to promoting economic vitality, affordable homeownership and wealth creation,” said Teresa Bryce Bazemore, president and chief executive officer of FHLBank San Francisco. “Our member institutions know their local communities best, and giving members access to these programs allows them to amplify their own community support efforts while directing the assistance to where it’s most needed.”

Ripple effects on member institutions and consumers

The support FHLBank San Francisco provides to its members levels the playing field, allowing local community lenders to better compete with larger financial institutions. Community lenders can also draw on their deep local knowledge and understanding of their customers to responsibly underwrite loans to qualified borrowers, including small businesses, with nontraditional profiles — and keep loans on their books rather than selling them on the secondary market, enabling personalized servicing with greater flexibility to work with people to avoid default.

FHLBank San Francisco’s support of local lenders also trickles down to borrowers through lower overall borrowing costs (keeping loans more affordable), through grants that make homeownership more attainable and sustainable, and through economic development initiatives that help position people for both home and small business ownership.

Access to credit — both mortgage lending and commercial lending — is key to economic vibrancy. By working behind the scenes to help their member financial institutions keep credit flowing to their customers and communities, FHLBanks not only support community lenders but help to strengthen diverse neighborhoods, seed small businesses, and empower residents to build sustainable communities. It’s a unique and valuable role within the financial services industry.

As Lasher of Community Commerce Bank said, “With reliable liquidity and access to economic development grant programs, we’re able to better support local business growth and reinvest in our communities — in turn giving people the tools they need to create a brighter future.”

2024-03-26T12:01:00

(BPT) – Over the past several years, our backyards have become much more than spaces for weekend barbecues. They’re sanctuaries where we go to decompress from our increasingly hectic lives and gather safely with family and friends to celebrate life’s special moments. With self-care an increasing priority, it’s no surprise that creating a sense of sanctuary tops the list of trends expected to influence exterior design this year. According to the outdoor living experts at Trex, following are four trends poised to shape the way we live, unwind and entertain in the great outdoors in the year ahead:

Restorative Retreats

Connecting with nature is critical for humans to maintain optimal health, and a backyard area can play a major role in promoting both mental and physical well-being. Creating a restorative backyard retreat can be as simple as turning a cozy corner into a reading nook by adding plush cushions and pillows. Or, with a little more budget, you can transform a deck into a tranquil space for yoga or meditation. Simple additions, like fencing, privacy screens or lattice, can enhance a sense of sanctuary and luxury.

And don’t forget the space beneath the deck, especially if it’s elevated. By adding an under-deck drainage system like RainEscape^® to keep the space below the deck dry, this area can be the perfect spot for a hot tub, cold tub or sauna. This innovative system installs above the joists of a deck’s foundation, allowing homeowners to discreetly run gas and electric lines to create an outdoor space with the same function and finishes as a room inside the home.

Natural and Neutral

Homeowners are embracing the elegance of a more minimalist palette, opting for cleaner lines and materials that create a harmonious and modern outdoor ambiance. As a result, nature-inspired hues are set to dominate in the year ahead. Demand for light, neutral decking is up, as evidenced by the adoption of new offerings, such as Trex’s Transcend Lineage and Signature lines. Featuring authentic wood aesthetics in light, refined hues that complement indoor flooring materials, these high-performance, low-maintenance composite decking options are ideal for achieving seamless continuity from the inside, out.

Sustainable Selections

People are more conscious than ever of their environmental footprint and want to create outdoor spaces that last without leaving a damaging impact. Native plantings, pollinator gardens, stormwater captures and zero-scaping are all gaining popularity. Likewise, demand for eco-friendly materials is on the rise. Made from up to 95% recycled and reclaimed materials, Trex composite decking is an ideal choice for today’s increasingly eco-conscious homeowners. Warrantied to last up to 50 years, it won’t fade, stain, warp or crack and never needs to be sanded, stained or refinished, making it a sustainable choice that feels as good as it looks. The brand also offers aluminum railings made with 40% recycled material and durable, weather-resistant outdoor furnishings made from recycled milk jugs.

DIY: Design It Yourself

“If you can dream it, you can do it.” When it comes to designing outdoor spaces, this mantra rings true. Today’s homeowners have access to a virtually endless array of online tools, cost calculators and expert guidance, making planning, designing and building your dream outdoor space easier than ever. Remember, DIY doesn’t mean doing it alone. No matter your experience level or where you are in the process, there are plenty of tools, guides and resources available at your fingertips to help turn your outdoor vision into a view.

For more outdoor living ideas, tips and tools, visit www.Trex.com.

2024-03-25T09:01:00

(BPT) – With 60% of single Americans ages 18-44 using dating apps, Whirlpool^® conducted a survey to explore what singles value most in their potential partners. Read on to discover what they found.

2024-03-20T07:01:00

(BPT) – If you’re a facility maintenance professional, you know the challenge of juggling multiple responsibilities. Beyond daily maintenance, you’re a jack-of-all-trades called on to handle facility repairs.

From damaged walls to minor electrical issues and beyond, you’re the go-to person for keeping your facility in top shape. Whether you’re new at your job or have been at it for a while, it’s always good to find hacks here and there to make these repair tasks as quick and easy as possible. Check out these pro tips to help you tackle four common facility repairs.

1. Chipped paint

No matter how careful you are, chipped paint is inevitable. You could sand down the area and paint over it, but for better results, you’ll need to do a little more work.

After scraping off loose paint around the chip, use a wire brush to remove any remaining debris before sanding. Use 100-grit sandpaper for a smooth finish and remove lingering dust and paint chips with a damp, lint-free rag.

Now that you’ve prepped the area use a thin layer of drywall compound or wood filler to raise the level of the area to match the surrounding paint for a seamless repair. Prime, paint and voila, it’s like the chip was never there!

2. Damaged ceiling tiles

Whether from water damage, gouging or other mishaps, you’ll come across ceiling tiles in your facilities that need replacement. For the best results, invest in pro-level equipment, especially if you’re in charge of large and/or multiple facilities. Using a product like RevealCut Ceiling Tile Cutting Workstation speeds installation, avoids manual acoustic ceiling tile cutting and delivers precise results every time.

Created by Arrow Fastener, known for its iconic T50 stapler, the all-in-one precision workstation cuts tiles in 30 seconds or less. Built-in measuring eliminates the need for scribing and multiple trips up the ladder while delivering 80% labor savings and decreasing the chance of injury. Even crooked walls are a cinch because the RevealCut can easily make out-of-square cuts!

3. Torn or stained carpet

Daily wear and tear and accidents can do a number on carpets. If you have a particularly unsightly section, avoid the expense of full replacement by performing a patch job. The procedure itself isn’t difficult. What can be a challenge is finding extra pieces of matching carpet.

You’ll likely find leftover carpeting from the original installation in the facility. If not, you can cut out what you need from existing carpet in less trafficked areas like under an enclosed staircase, water heater or furnace closets or under furniture that isn’t likely to be moved, like a storage cabinet.

4. Drywall

You already know how to fix small holes, dings and cracks in drywall, but there will be times when a large patch job is required. When you have a hole bigger than 6 inches, you’ll need to grab a piece of drywall to patch the problem.

You’ll have no trouble cutting and adhering a new piece of drywall to the area with joint compound, but for a truly professional job, you’ll need a few more tools and materials. It will take longer, but the final result will be worth it.

After you remove the damaged drywall and cut out a new piece, place furring strips through the hole and behind the drywall and anchor them with drywall screws. Place the drywall patch in place on top of the furring strips and secure with drywall screws. Using drywall tape, secure the edges before applying joint compound to the seam and across the whole area. Once dry, sand, prime and paint as usual.

Don’t forget to use quality tools for professional-grade results. Add products like Goldblatt Drywall Tools to your toolbox for smoother walls and perfect joints.

Using these four tips, you’ll take your facility maintenance repairs from good to great! Keep elevating your confidence and skills so your facility can thrive under your expert care.

2024-03-19T10:01:00

(BPT) – Do-it-yourself (DIY) projects are not solely reserved for seasoned professionals. With preparation, a few handy tips and tricks, and high-quality protective gear, anyone can tackle home improvement projects like a pro. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your supplies, and get to work.

Create a Plan

By taking the time to plan and define your objectives, you’ll lay a solid foundation for success. Planning allows you to foresee potential challenges and devise solutions in advance, minimizing frustration and setbacks. Lay out the materials, set the timeline, and strategize every move.

Use Top-Notch Tools and Materials

In the world of DIY, only the strong survive. Borrow or invest in tools and materials that don’t back down from a fight. We’re talking about the heavyweights, the reliable, the durable — gear that ensures your finished product can endure once the paint dries.

Gear Up for Safety

High-quality protective gear ensures that everyone, regardless of skill level, can confidently take charge of their projects. For instance, products by Venom Steel redefine the DIY experience, making it accessible to all with their unmatched durability and performance. Known for their toughness and high quality, the company’s gloves can provide an added layer of protection for your hands during tasks such as priming or painting, while coveralls are recommended to protect your clothes during activities such as sanding. The heavy-duty face mask works as a barrier against liquid and dry particles while also allowing you to breathe easily while at work.

Enforce a Budget

Establish a budget that’s as solid as your determination. Account for every expense, anticipate unforeseen challenges and ensure your financial strategy is as robust as your project plan. A well-planned budget encourages resourcefulness, pushing you to find cost-effective solutions and alternatives.

Knowledge is Power

If you’re facing a new DIY challenge, educate yourself like your success will depend on it — because it does. Dive into online resources, tutorials, and guides. Don’t hesitate to call in reinforcements — friends, family, or professionals.

Be Flexible

Sometimes plans just crumble, and unforeseen challenges emerge. Adaptability is key. Embrace flexibility; it’s the hallmark of a confident DIYer. Unleash your creativity, explore alternative solutions, and turn obstacles into opportunities. Take snapshots of your mishaps — they’re not just memories, they can be lessons for projects to come.

Tackle your DIY projects with the strength and resilience of Venom Steel products. They’re not just tools; they’re the allies you can count on to help you get a better grip on the basics of a new skill and finish your next project.

2024-03-19T08:01:00

(BPT) – As the weather begins to warm up, it’s time to breathe life into your backyard sanctuary and embrace the vibrant spirit of spring. Professional landscaper, author, and TV host of “I Hate My Yard” Sara Bendrick shares her In/Out list for spring, taking a look at today’s gardening trends, as well as her best tips for revitalizing your outdoor space this year.

What’s out?

You can say goodbye to these common substances and practices that aren’t great for your yard, your family, or the environment.

Harmful chemicals

People are more aware than ever of how harmful chemicals like pesticides and herbicides negatively impact the soil, your food, and your health. Reduce or exclude these toxic chemicals from your garden experience by planting insect-deterring herbs or by incorporating organic compost and mulch to add essential nutrients to your soil.

“If you’re starting a new garden and want to till in organic matter, the STIHL KombiSystem with the mini-cultivator attachment is a great multi-task tool,” said Bendrick.

Colored or rubber mulch

Because it’s sold everywhere and is often on sale, most people use bagged, dyed mulch to freshen up their flower beds. But the truth is, these dyed wood chips contain chemicals that can leach into your soil.

You may also fall for the convenience of rubber mulch, but that’s made of recycled car tires, which are toxic and can transfer chemicals by touch and into the soil as they wear down.

“Instead of colored or rubber mulch, opt for natural wood chips,” recommended Bendrick. “You can use wood bark, pine needles, or other natural materials that break down and add organic material back into the soil.”

Artificial turf

As water restrictions have become increasingly widespread, so has artificial turf, but that kind of turf can’t be recycled when it’s old. Eventually, you will see weeds popping up again if your artificial turf is not maintained.

“Most importantly, it’s hot and inorganic, increasing the ‘heat island effect’ that warms up the surrounding environment,” said Bendrick. “Homeowners should consider other lawn alternatives like tall native grasses or drought-tolerant ground covers.” Using local, native, and climate-appropriate plant selections can transform a high-maintenance yard into a beautiful oasis — while saving on water and scaling maintenance to quarterly rather than weekly or monthly.

What’s in?

Ready to hear about practical, easy-to-follow tips that can improve the look as well as the health of your yard? Bendrick recommends embracing the following trends.

Bugs

Insects are essential for pollinating food sources, and they are also great at cleaning up undesirables in your garden, like feces, dead animals and plants, recycling their nutrients back into the soil.

“Our relationship with creepy crawlies has not always been friendly,” noted Bendrick. “However, there is a resurgence of respect for the insect world and their integral work in balancing the ecosystem in our gardens.”

Collecting or harvesting rainwater

Rain barrels are great, but they’re limited by their smaller size, leaving lots of water uncollected for use. Passive infiltration and collection pits are great additional catchment methods or alternatives to rain barrels.

“These systems are becoming increasingly popular as they can help recharge groundwater and hold moisture onsite longer, benefiting your lawn and garden in many ways!” Bendrick added.

Battery-powered outdoor power equipment

When it comes to maintaining your yard, there are many options to choose from, but battery-powered tools are in high demand because they provide a low-noise, zero-exhaust emissions, lightweight option that offers power and performance comparable to gas.

For example, Bendrick recommends the STIHL lineup of battery-powered homeowner tools that offer an interchangeable battery compatible with 15 different tools to tackle all your lawn care jobs.

Color is back!

Technically, color never went away, but grey tones have, until recently, dominated rooms and spaces indoors and out.

“Now we’re seeing a warming trend moving in, with a focus on earth tones like soft tans and natural greens, with pops of accent colors, like Peach Fuzz, Pantone’s color of the year, to create a warm yet vibrant and personalized space,” said Bendrick.

Smart landscapes

Tech has moved to the garden! Thanks to the latest technology, you can even go beyond irrigation systems that turn off when it’s raining or lighting apps that allow you to customize your backyard mood from your phone.

“Today, you can even use autonomous lawnmowers like the STIHL iMOW^® for smart landscapes that reduce your maintenance tasks,” said Bendrick, “and offer quite the conversation piece as well.”

Knowing the latest trends in yard and garden design, care and maintenance can help you create a more eco-friendly, livable outdoor space for you and your family to enjoy.

Visit STIHLUSA.com for more tips from Sara to help your lawn and garden thrive.

2024-03-18T10:01:01

(BPT) – Spring is almost here! The rising temperatures serve as a reminder that it’s time to start preparing for outdoor entertaining. Whether you are looking to completely revamp your setup or simply add a few upgrades, there are many ways to make your yard feel larger, more comfortable and more useful, no matter the time of day.

Here are eight simple upgrades to get the most out of your patio:

1. Join the Outdoors with the Indoors

Create an area that acts as a gateway between your home and the outdoors. Using similar colors, textures and themes enhances the flow of your yard and creates an inviting atmosphere. A patio provides an excellent opportunity to blend indoor and outdoor living. You don’t need to limit mealtimes to your kitchen table; instead, you can explore dining alfresco no matter the time of day.

2. Make the Outdoor Dining Table Your Focal Point

The patio table is one of the most important aspects of your yard, and it should be the center of attention. You can invest in affordable furniture or make simple upgrades to your current space by purchasing paint and other accessories at Lowe’s. Pair stylish tableware with cozy seating arrangements to create a warm ambiance. Whether you choose to enjoy a breakfast feast as the sun rises or host a dinner party for friends, your patio should serve as a gathering place where the whole crew is invited.

3. Invest in Pieces with Multiple Functions

Invest in versatile furniture and appliances to get the most out of outdoor entertaining without taking up too much valuable floorspace. A modular cooking system like the Charbroil^® Commercial Series™ Grill & Griddle Combo can help you save space without having to settle for just one thing. You can unlock endless flavor possibilities and effortlessly swap surfaces to cook any meal, any time.

4. Create Sections to Divide Your Space

Build out different sections to divide your space and create intimate gathering spots for you and your guests. Rugs, tables and eclectic seating arrangements can help establish a flow and create designated spaces for your living and dining.

5. Go Bold with Color

Gone are the days of grays and beiges; now, you can try experimenting with bold hues. From bright furniture pieces to vibrant accessories, infusing bold colors can instantly revitalize your outdoor area, creating a dynamic and inviting atmosphere for entertaining.

6. Experiment with Organic Materials and Textures

Incorporating natural textures, such as wood and stone, into your outdoor decor not only adds a touch of authenticity but also creates a connection with nature, fostering a serene and inviting ambiance for outdoor activities and relaxation.

7. Play with Outdoor Lighting

Don’t hold out on outdoor lighting! Explore different options and combinations of lighting solutions like fire pits, torches and string lights to create ambiance, light pathways and generate warmth on cooler nights.

8. Embrace Native Plants

Your garden can foster biodiversity through a diverse selection of native flowers and plants that attract pollinators. Create eye-catching and ecologically sustainable habitats that benefit both wildlife and the environment while adding pops of color to your yard.

Once your outdoor space feels like home, you can start to invite the whole crew over to enjoy it with you over a delicious meal. Explore some of these tasty recipes from Charbroil that you can prepare using the Commercial Series™ Grill & Griddle Combo:

Japanese Soufflé Pancakes: Simple to create yet sure to impress, these reimagined pancakes elevate familiar ingredients to the extraordinary. Each subtly sweet, custard-like bite is a cloud of culinary bliss, lifting breakfast, brunch or snack time to exhilarating, fluffy peaks of perfection.

Seared Ahi Tuna Bowl: Loaded with sesame-crusted tuna, sweet grilled pineapple, a punch of umami and the satisfying crunch of fresh veggies, this isn’t just an incredible dish — it’s a thing of beauty.

Grilled Banana Split: Undeniably sweet and rich in flavor, the banana split is a fan favorite for good reason. Grilling fruit brings amplified flavors and rich caramelization to the classic vanilla-ice-cream-and-chocolate-syrup-topped banana split.