Choosing tropical fruit trees for a home garden requires careful consideration of soil conditions, climate, disease resistance, and watering needs. With Huanglongbing (HLB) affecting citrus crops worldwide, homeowners must make informed decisions about which varieties will thrive in their environment. When a Florida homeowner needed to restore a hurricane-battered garden, landscape contractor Jenn Nawada and […]
Every homeowner eventually faces a broken tile, a stuck door, or a dull mower blade. The difference between writing a check to a contractor and handling it yourself comes down to a handful of core techniques. The experts at This Old House have assembled 25 fundamental skills covering the most common household repairs. Mastering these
If your energy bills keep climbing and your home never feels quite comfortable, a home energy assessment is the smartest investment you can make. Also called an energy audit, this systematic evaluation pinpoints exactly where your home is losing energy, from drafty windows to underinsulated attics. Understanding your home’s energy performance is the first step
A raised vegetable garden bed brings crops to a comfortable working height, improves soil drainage, and gives you full control over the growing medium your plants live in. Unlike traditional in-ground plots, raised beds warm up faster in spring, extend the growing season, and require far less bending and kneeling. Whether you are an experienced
When summer temperatures climb, a portable air conditioner offers one of the most practical solutions for keeping specific rooms comfortable without the expense of central air. Unlike window-mounted units, these freestanding appliances sit on the floor and vent hot air through a flexible duct that connects to a nearby window. They are especially valuable for
Firing up the grill marks the official start of summer for many homeowners. However, a poorly maintained grill can quickly dampen the mood with uneven cooking, excessive smoke, ignition failures, or exposure to harmful bacteria. Regular maintenance keeps the burners firing properly, heat distributed evenly, and the grill safe to use. Whether you own a
Japanese maples (Acer palmatum) are among the most admired ornamental trees in residential landscaping, prized for their delicate foliage, elegant branching patterns, and striking seasonal color. Native to the forest understories of Japan, Korea, and parts of China, these deciduous trees have become a staple in gardens worldwide. Landscape contractor Jenn Nawada, who has six
A stone walkway adds natural beauty and timeless character to any landscape, but over time the mortar joints between the stones can crack, crumble, and deteriorate. When this happens, the walkway becomes not only an eyesore but also a tripping hazard, as water seeps into the gaps and loosens the stones from their setting bed.
Citrus trees bring a touch of the tropics to any backyard, producing fragrant blossoms and delicious fruit. However, these trees are vulnerable to a range of diseases that can compromise their health and reduce fruit yield. From citrus greening to fungal infections, early identification and treatment make the difference between saving a tree and losing
Few names carry as much authority in professional painting as Norm Abram, the master carpenter whose This Old House notebooks have guided tradespeople for decades. His approach to paintbrush care extends beyond simple cleaning into a philosophy of craftsmanship that improves finish quality and reduces material waste. A well-maintained brush holds its shape, lays paint
