Summer herbs you'll actually use

Plants that thrive in terrible soil

In today's episode, pick plants that thrive in poor, well-drained soil instead of trying to fix it — think sedums, yarrow, lavender, ornamental grasses, or native wildflowers. Portions of this program were created with the assistance of AI, including checking the calendar and incorporating weather or seasonal data.

How to make your lawn greener naturally

In today's episode, topdress your lawn with a thin layer of finished compost—spread sparingly so grass shows—and lightly water, applying in cooler hours and testing a small patch to improve soil, moisture and slow-release fertility. Portions of this program were created with the assistance of AI, including checking the calendar and incorporating weather or seasonal data.

Heat-loving flowers for full sun

In today's episode, plant zinnias in full sun for reliable summer color—start from seed or transplants, loosen soil and add compost, water gently, and deadhead spent blooms to keep them flowering all season. Portions of this program were created with the assistance of AI, including checking the calendar and incorporating weather or seasonal data.

Why your zucchini flowers fall off

In today's episode, learn how to hand-pollinate zucchini flowers: pick a male bloom, transfer its pollen to a nearby female blossom in the morning with a gentle touch or soft brush to help fruit set. Portions of this program were created with the assistance of AI, including checking the calendar and incorporating weather or seasonal data.

Cheap garden upgrades from the dollar store

In today's episode, I show how to make a simple, inexpensive self-watering planter using a shallow plastic bin and a cotton wick to draw water into a pot, keeping containers watered during hot or busy days. Portions of this program were created with the assistance of AI, including checking the calendar and incorporating weather or seasonal data.