Landscaping

  1. How to Plant Nursery Plants Outdoors
    Planting shrub bush outdoors

    One of the easiest and most affordable ways to enhance the appearance of your yard is by adding plants, shrubs and trees. So, if you're looking to add some color or a little shade, here are some great, simple landscaping and gardening ideas, as well as

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  2. Definitive Grass Seed Buying Guide for Home Gardeners
    Grass seed in garden shovel

    Nothing impacts home landscaping quite like a well-kept lawn. And it's not all about impressing your neighbors. In addition to looking nice, a healthy lawn absorbs excess rainfall, reduces soil erosion, filters groundwater, produces oxygen and improves

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  3. How to Know Your USDA Plant Hardiness Zone
    USDA Planting Zones
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  4. Guide to Lawn Mower Safety and Maintenance
    Guide to Lawn Mower Safety and Maintenance

    Before using a new lawn mower, it’s important to understand the basics of proper operation and maintenance. Doing so will keep everyone safe and help you get the most out of your investment.

    Are Lawn Mowers Safe to Use?

    Since millions o

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  5. Find the Right Lawn Mower for Your Needs With This Handy Guide
    Shopping for lawn mower at hardware store

    The key to keeping a pristine yard is to have the right lawn mower. With so many different types of models on the market, however, it can be difficult to choose the right mower for your unique situation. A lawn mower is a big investment, and you don’t

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  6. Split Hosta Plants: How and When to Split Your Hosta Plants
    Gardener splitting a clump of hosta plants

    People love hostas because they are lovely shade plants. They are easy to grow and give gardens a good foundation. To keep your hosta

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  7. How to Prune Rose Bushes for Beautiful Results
    Gardener pruning a rose bush with pruning shears

    Cutting back a beautiful rose bush seems counterintuitive, but regular pruning actually encourages new growth, helps shape the plant, and gets rid of dead wood to reduce the risk of fungal disease. While learning how to prune roses takes time and practice,

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  8. Tips for Maintaining an Irrigation System
    Popup lawn sprinkler watering lawn

    To continue working efficiently and effectively, irrigation systems require regular maintenance. When you take the time to maintain your system, you may be able to save water. It’s also something that you can mainly do yourself. Here’s how.

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  9. Annual Tree and Shrub Pruning Helps Your Garden Thrive
    trimming hedges with hedge shears

    Trimming hedges, bushes and trees in your garden yields several benefits. Not only does trimming keep your landscape looking its best throughout the year, but it also promotes healthy plants. Before you get to work with your pruning

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  10. Hot Weather Lawn Care: How to Keep Grass Healthy
    Dried up lawn during a hot summer drought

    The Basics of Hot Weather Lawn Care

    Heat waves are an unavoidable part of summer in many places. However, they do not inevitably ruin lawns. With the right hot weather lawn care tips, you can help your lawn survive a scorching summer. This guide

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  11. The Ultimate Guide on Fall Lawn Care in 3 Steps
    Lawn mower mulching fall leaves

    When the high temps finally start dropping, your lawn care routine changes. There are several things you can do in the fall to make your lawn look better next year. Also, proper fall lawn care will protect it during the colder months. This guide includes

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  12. How to Get Rid of Leaves: 5 Alternatives to Bagging for Pickup
    Placing fall leaves in plastic bags for disposal

    Many adults today have childhood memories of raking leaves and playing in the leaf piles. Some parents today pass on that tradition and let their kids enjoy the leaves before bagging them. Did you know there are other ways to use those leaves? Instead

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  13. How to Choose the Best Snow Shovel for This Winter
    person shoveling the snow

    Do you need a new shovel? Perhaps you just moved or bought a house and are now in charge of snow removal. Should you choose plastic or metal? Electric or manual? Shoveling is a winter task that many people dread. However, having the right shovel can make

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  14. Garden Cart vs. Wheelbarrow: Which One to Buy for Your Garden
    yellow garden cart with mulch and shovel

    What are garden carts for? What's the difference between a cart and a wheelbarrow? These are some things people often ask when they consider buying a cart or a wheelbarrow. Garden carts and wheelbarrows are handy for moving supplies, trash, and more. They're especially great if you need to move landscaping rocks, fertilizer, or anything else heavy. This guide will help solve the garden cart vs. wheelbarrow debate with definitions, pros, cons, and more. Learn how to find the best garden cart or wheelbarrow for your needs.

    What Are Wheelbarrows? What Are Garden Carts?

    The biggest considerations in the wheelbarrow vs. cart decision are why you need something to transport items. A wheelbarrow cart and a garden or yard cart are two different things. While they perform similar functions, it's important to recognize the differences. 

    A yard or garden cart is shallow with a large, flat bottom and straight sides. The wheels tend to be larger than a wheelbarrow's wheels. Wheelbarrows may have only one or two wheels and sloped or curved trays. Some wheelbarrows have four wheels, but these are usually more expensive and are used on farms and ranches. Because of its design, a wheelbarrow offers greater maneuverability and versatility. However, maneuverability is harder with heavier or unbalanced loads. Garden carts tend to offer more stability.

    Carts and wheelbarrows vary in their capacity. You may see it listed as cubic feet, and 6 cubic feet is a good choice for a wheelbarrow. If you pick one larger than that, it can be harder to control. Carts come in capacity sizes of a couple of cubic feet or more. Whether you choose a cart or a wheelbarrow, pick one that works for your needs to avoid overloading it. 

    Another common difference between the two is their handles. Carts often have one straight bar-like handle, and wheelbarrows have two separate handles.

    Pros and Cons of Wheelbarrows

    One of the main advantages of a garden wheelbarrow is its design that allows you to haul loose matter. Carts have a flatter design. A wheelbarrow tends to be deeper than a garden cart. Its design lends to greater maneuverability, which makes it easier to steer than a garden cart on non-smooth surfaces.

    Since many have one wheel, transporting loads requires balancing them correctly. If not, the wheelbarrow may tip over. This may not be the case with two-wheel or four-wheel wheelbarrows. Some people choose two- and four-wheel versions for heavier or larger loads. Some wheelbarrows have tires with air. One disadvantage of wheelbarrows that have air in their tires is the risk of flat tires. However, some types do have solid tires, but those can make transport rougher.

    Smaller wheelbarrows are easier to store than larger ones. If the product is metal, it's important to store it properly to avoid rust. One common space-saving way to store it is to use a wall rack.

    While there are several sizes of wheelbarrows, most people choose the 3- or 6-cubic-feet products. Many people wonder how many loads it takes to transport the material they plan to use. You may need to convert a load's cubic yardage to a wheelbarrow's cubic feet capacity. Transporting a cubic yard of material with a capacity of 3 cubic feet takes about nine wheelbarrow loads.

    Pros and Cons of Garden Carts

    There are several styles and types of garden carts. For example, you may find metal and plastic garden carts for sale. Although some metal products may have components that can rust, they may be more durable than one with thin plastic. A thicker polymer is more suitable for heavier use. However, any cart can get damaged if you overload it.

    Many carts can handle heavier loads than wheelbarrows, and they're designed to be stable. Also, carts carry the entire weight of the load. A wheelbarrow requires more effort from the operator. Some smaller carts can also fold up, which is great for easy storage and saving space.

    Carts can be harder to move on uneven lawns, gravel, or other rough terrains. However, on smoother surfaces, the wheels roll easier than a wheelbarrow. This is especially true with heavier items. Larger carts that do not fold up may take up more storage space. They're not as easy to hang on the wall as a wheelbarrow.

    When it comes to load capacity, there are more options with carts. You can also find different styles, like front trucks that tip forward and sit flush on the ground for easy scooping. Popular capacity choices are between 6 and 12 cubic feet.

    The Final Showdown: Wheelbarrow or Garden Cart?

    You now have a better idea of which product to pick based on needs like bulkier items or loose matter. Your needs and your budget may determine which option is better for you. For instance, polymer or plastic materials tend to cost less than high-quality metals. However, if you need something durable for heavy loads, be sure to pick a suitable material.

    Capacity choices also depend on the loads you are carrying. Perhaps you need something for regular lawn care needs and don't need a high-capacity cart. On the other hand, you may have a project like landscaping or creating window boxes and may need something that can handle heavier loads. Aside from capacity and material, read reviews to determine quality. Choose a product from a reputable manufacturer. If any products you're considering come with warranties, compare those as well.

    Pay attention to the handles of a cart or wheelbarrow. For wheelbarrows, ergonomic handles may be helpful. Look at the wheels to make sure the cart or wheelbarrow is sturdy. If you pick a wheelbarrow, decide whether you want solid or pneumatic tires. Be sure to have the supplies you need to care for pneumatic tires if you choose them.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    These are some questions that people frequently ask about yard carts and wheelbarrows.

    How do you pick a wheelbarrow?

    Pick one that has a capacity high enough to handle your intended use. Make sure you understand the difference between non-pneumatic and pneumatic tires to pick the right type. Also, pick one with comfortable and sturdy steering handles.

    What's the best wheelbarrow to get?

    The best one will have the right material and capacity for your needs. In addition to having suitable tires and handles, it should have good reviews.

    Are one or two wheels better for a wheelbarrow?

    It's better to have two wheels for heavier loads. However, one-wheel models are easier to steer and may be more suitable on rough terrain.

    Is a poly or steel wheelbarrow better?

    For heavier loads, steel is better with its durability. Poly or plastic products are fine as long as you stay within the load capacity limits.

    What's the difference between a wheelbarrow and a cart?

    Wheelbarrows can have one, two, or four wheels, and carts always have four wheels. They may also have different wheel materials. Additionally, a wheelbarrow's body design is deeper and more curved. The handle styles are also different.

    What's better than a wheelbarrow?

    A cart may be better if you're moving heavier or bulkier items across a smooth surface. It doesn't require as much physical effort.

    What are garden carts for?

    Garden carts are for hauling landscaping or gardening supplies. They may also be used to haul other items.

    How do I choose a garden cart?

    Pick one with a design that fits your needs for the things

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  15. Alternative Mulch Landscaping Ideas
    Rubber mulch on landscape fabric to prevent weeds

    Mulch is a vital tool in any home gardener’s shed. It retains moisture, insulates plant roots and reduces weed growth, all while enhancing the visual appeal of flowerbeds and other landscaping features. While many people rely on shredded wood or bark m

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  16. How to Dethatch and Aerate Your Lawn
    Dethatching lawn with thatching rake

    As fall fades into winter, it's time to combat two common lawn enemies: thatch and soil compaction. Thatch is the buildup of dead organic matter and, along with compacted soil, it can prevent your lawn's roots from getting enough water and air. Dethatching

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  17. How To Remove a Tree Stump
    Tree stump to be removed from yard

    Tree stumps are often left in the ground for a reason — they can be very difficult to remove. Removing a tree stump is not as impossible as it seems though. In fact, with the right advice and tools, you can do the job yourself. Here are a few ways

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  18. How to Remove Dog Spots from Your Lawn
    Dog inspecting yellow spot on lawn

    The unsightly yellow or brown spots on your otherwise lush, green lawn often are the work of man’s best friend, whether it’s your dog or a neighbor’s. While it’s true that once you see the dog lawn spots, it’s too late to prevent that damage, you can t

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  19. How to Prevent & Kill Weeds
    Digging up weeds from landscaping

    Weeds can be problematic for any homeowner, especially since there are thousands of weed species in existence and about 25-30 of them can be found even in well-maintained turf. As you survey your lawn and garden, look for dandelions, milkweed, chickweed,

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  20. How to Stripe Your Lawn Like a Pro
    Tidy lawn mower stripes

    You keep your lawn healthy and well-manicured but you can take it to the next level by mowing stripes into your yard. If you want your grass to have the professionally trimmed look of a baseball field or golf course, follow the steps below and make your

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  21. How to Make a Bird Feeder (Easy & Advanced Projects)
    Bird feeder made from plastic bottles

    A bird feeder is a great addition to your backyard that your entire family (and your feathered friends) can enjoy. There are many types of bird feeders and various ways to build one. This project covers how to build two styles of feeders: One is a wooden

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  22. How to Fertilize Your Lawn
    Spreading fertilizer on healthy lawn

    If you don’t regularly fertilize your lawn, you should. Fertilizer keeps grass healthy and green, and helps prevent weed growth. And, a vibrant lawn makes the rest of your home’s exterior look more appealing.

    Choose a Fertilizer

    Adding

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  23. 4 Tips for Organic Lawn Care
    Kids laying in healthy green grass

    Homeowners spend quite a bit of time and money in the quest for a beautiful, lush green lawn. While chemical fertilizers and pesticides are often the go-to products for greener pastures, using them too much can be detrimental to your soil and the surrounding

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  24. How to Build a Backyard Bird Habitat
    Cardinal splashing in bird bath in lush garden

    If you're a bird lover and want to draw a diverse range of bird life to your yard, you'll need more than just a birdbath or bird feeder. You need to attract birds the way a natural habitat would.

    Creating a habitat for birds in your yard is not

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