Hot tips for cool crops: Get growing on your fall garden

You might think the end of summer means bidding farewell to fresh, homegrown veggies. Not so - many cool-season crops hit their heyday as autumn temperatures drop, and some even taste better when nipped by a light frost. Here are some tips for growing a fall vegetable garden.

Tractors can be safer with seatbelts and rollover protection

Tractor rollovers are all too common among both professional operators and rural lifestyle families alike. So what can you do to help keep yourself and your family safe? Make sure that your tractor is equipped with a Rollover Protection Structure (ROPS) and a seatbelt.

Right for your region: Keep your garden beautiful this fall

A colorful fall garden is as simple as knowing what to plant. Although gardening sources may suggest seasonal projects, these might not be ideal for your region. To prepare for autumn, follow these simple guidelines based on your local climate. It's easy to have a beautiful fall garden - no matter where you live.

What you need to know about protecting your ash trees

Virtually all of the 7 billion ash trees in the United States are at risk for infestation by the emerald ash borer, also known as EAB. You can save your ash trees by acting now and starting a prevention program.

Create your own relaxing outdoor oasis this summer

It's summer time again and the living is easy - at least it's supposed to be. But when mosquitos invade your yard, it's tough to enjoy fun in the sun. Lasting summer memories often begin with a pleasant environment in your own backyard. But the first step is keeping the mosquitoes at bay.

Put a little personality in your outdoor entertaining

Warm sun-drenched days and cool starry evenings can inspire the host or hostess in us all. It's the perfect time of year for easy outdoor entertaining - to reconnect with family and friends at a backyard barbecue, neighborhood block party or rooftop soiree. It's also a time to show off your unique style and personality without the pressure of planning an elaborate sit-down dinner.

Tips for keeping your garden truly organic

The trend for gardening at home continues to grow - and people are taking a particular interest in raising their flowers and vegetables organically. With such prominent figures as Michelle Obama taking public initiatives in organic gardening, more and more products that cater to the trend are appearing.

Inspect your fences and gates to ensure safety and security

Fences with gates in good working order -- especially those that are self-closing and self-latching -- can protect your home, family and property. Now's the time to inspect fencing, gates and gate hardware around your property to ensure all are in good working condition.

Four ways to improve your home's beauty and resale value

In a tough housing market, homeowners want to improve their home's beauty and functionality, while adding resale value. This may include choosing products that reduce maintenance, save energy, improve appearance and offer protection from the damaging forces of nature. Here are some tips for problem areas that could benefit from the latest home solutions.

Outdoor lighting tops the list of easy weekend projects

With its mild temperatures, fall is a great time for outdoor home improvement projects, but it's also supposed to be a time to relax and have fun with family and friends. That makes quick-to-do projects that add to the "family fun factor" appealing to homeowners, who also need to spend their limited home improvement dollars wisely.