Gardening news from around the web

Cultivating for color: The hidden trade-offs between garden aesthetics and pollinator preferences

Colorful gardens can be pollinator-friendly with native flowering plants.
Uniquely colored flowers with big blooms might make for an aesthetically pleasing garden, but they can be unhelpful to pollinators. Careful consideration can help you plan a colorful and eco-friendly garden.

Upgrades to Optimize Your Outdoor Living Space

(BPT) - When you invest in a deck, you're creating more than an extension of your home: you're creating a place where friends and family can gather, relax and make lasting memories. With a few …

Are you overpaying for utilities? A state-by-state cost breakdown

Hometap reports that utility costs significantly burden homeowners, varying by location, home size, and climate, with average monthly bills at $489 nationwide.
A mix of annuals and perennials can look colorful and carefree. Deryn Davidson

Chaos gardening – wild beauty, or just a mess? A sustainable landscape specialist explains the trend

Chaos gardening is touted on social media as an easy, no-effort way to create a beautiful garden. A landscape specialist explains what to be aware of before chaotically tossing seeds around.

Investing in outdoor living: 5 of the biggest backyard trends of 2026

Houzz reports homeowners are prioritizing outdoor living spaces in 2026, focusing on comfort and functionality, with trends like multifunctional zones, elaborate outdoor kitchens, and professional help rising.

Cold cities are the most ready for winter, with one exception. See where your city ranks

Angi reports that Washington, D.C. ranks as the top U.S. city for fall home maintenance, with many northern cities leading in preparedness. 
Garden and Home

5 common mistakes homeowners make refinishing hardwood floors

(BPT) - Key takeaways:Hardwood floors are valued for their beauty, warmth and endurance.Refinishing protects the lifespan, appearance and value of hardwood floors.Zack Clavin, Bona's "Floor Doctor," …

The unseen, unsung hero of the water you drink

(BPT) - By Ned MonroeIt happens so often we hardly notice: Head to the kitchen, grab a glass from the cabinet, fill it with water from the faucet.Tap water is one of many conveniences of modern …

Shortlisting a residential water softener: A buyer’s guide

Culligan Harvey reports that shortlisting a residential water softener involves assessing household demand, plumbing compatibility, system types, and long-term maintenance costs.

(BPT) - If you've ever endured a power outage for any length of time, you know what a hassle it is. And one of the biggest issues? The loss of food and/or medications in your fridge and freezer. What …
Lifestyle news
Why You Need This Everyday Essential for Effortless Fabric Care
(BPT) - You spend a lot of time, effort and hard-earned money building a wardrobe you love. Whether you're dressing for the workweek, heading out for a special occasion or simply trying to keep your …
Holiday shoppers are turning to AI. Can retailers deliver?
Kase reports holiday shoppers increasingly use AI for gift selection, prompting retailers to adapt inventory and fulfillment strategies for 2026 demands.
How to stay fresh while camping
AXE reports tips for staying fresh while camping, emphasizing hygiene essentials and fresh clothes to combat odor.
How to protect your engagement ring at destination proposals
Jewelers Mutual Group reports that nearly 1 in 5 proposals occur during travel, highlighting the importance of protecting engagement rings during destination proposals.
Armpit discoloration and darkening: Causes and solutions
Dove Men + Care reports that underarm darkening can be caused by friction, irritation, and product ingredients.