Lisa Larsen

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Garden Guides uses a knowledgeable team of editors, writers, and experts to create all our content. We dive deep into the ever-evolving conversations surrounding gardening and landscaping, striving to deliver the most current and helpful tips, strengthened by expert insight and tutorials from our talented team.

As we cover many fields of expertise, we make it a priority to ensure every beat remains fresh and comprehensive. Additional information on our editorial process available here.

Stories By Lisa Larsen

  • Cypress Mulch Vs. Cedar Mulch

    Cypress Mulch Vs. Cedar Mulch. Mulch has been in use for hundreds of years, and comes in many forms. In recent years, mulches of cypress and cedar have risen in popularity and are used in the majority of landscaping projects. Both cypress and cedar mulch have benefits and drawbacks. Know about the mulch you choose.

    By Lisa Larsen November 4th, 2022 Read More
  • Azalea Care & Coffee Grounds

    Azalea Care & Coffee Grounds. Azaleas produce some of the most stunning blooms in the plant world. With ten thousand hybrids in North America, choices of color, height, bloom frequency and sun tolerance are endless. Azaleas are an acid-loving plant. Without the proper level of acid in the soil, the plants will fail to thrive and bloom. Surprisingly, an excellent source of acid is your very own coffee grounds. If you don't drink coffee, many coffee shops are happy to donate their grounds.

    By Lisa Larsen November 4th, 2022 Read More
  • Green Plant With A Reddish Thick Stem & Pink Flowers

    Green Plant With a Reddish Thick Stem & Pink Flowers. There are dozens of plants that fit the description of a green plant with a red, thick stem and pink flowers. Plants such as these are found all over the world, in forests growing wild, or in homes thriving in flower pots pot. Many enjoy shade while others require full sun. Some have pink flowers that emit a wonderful fragrance, yet others have no scent at all. Each has unique qualities

    By Lisa Larsen November 4th, 2022 Read More
  • Troubleshooting Uneven Cutting Of A Craftsman Tractor

    Troubleshooting Uneven Cutting of a Craftsman Tractor. Craftsman, a trademark of Sears, represents a history of quality tools and lawn equipment. Since 1927 the Craftsman line has been changing and expanding to meet the needs of an evolving world. Today the Craftsman line of lawn tractors boasts over 13 different models with deck sizes ranging from 42 to 54 inches. The lawn tractor is popular amongst homeowners with large properties that need a mowing machine that is versatile and capable of performing tasks other than just cutting the grass.

    By Lisa Larsen November 4th, 2022 Read More
  • How To Space Live Oak Trees

    How to Space Live Oak Trees. Chosen as the state tree of Georgia, live oaks are one of the most popular trees in the southern United States. Live oaks grow to a stunning size. It isn't so much the trunk, however, that catches one's eye. It is the amazing canopy, spreading out to twice the size of the tree's height. For this reason, spacing live oaks properly is of considerable importance. Nearby structures such as buildings, fences and power lines can be adversely affected by poorly placed oak trees. Consider their size at maturity when selecting a planting site.

    By Lisa Larsen November 4th, 2022 Read More
  • How Does Gatorade Affect The Growth Of A Bean Plant?

    How Does Gatorade Affect the Growth of a Bean Plant?. Gatorade was produced in the mid-1960s as a beverage to boost the performance of athletes, specifically the University of Florida Gators. The original concoction contained nothing more than sucrose, citric acid, fish oil, salt, monopotassium phosphate and food coloring. Gatorade has evolved to include 13 different flavors and a low-calorie option. It is the world's leading sports drink.

    By Lisa Larsen November 4th, 2022 Read More
  • Five Leaflet Plant Identification

    Five Leaflet Plant Identification. Although a three-leaflet pattern is more common among plants, there are dozens of plants that can be identified with five leaflets. Some of these plants are toxic, while others are as harmless as they are beautiful. Often young plants start out with three leaflets, and as they mature they develop five. Observing a plant's leaflets is one way to aid in plant identification.

    By Lisa Larsen November 4th, 2022 Read More
  • Exmark Vs. Scag Mower

    Exmark Vs. Scag Mower. Exmark and Scag Power Equipment are both leaders in the production of commercial lawn mowers. Both companies were launched in the early 1980s, and both merged with better-established companies to grow and satisfy the demands of their respective customers. When comparing the similarities of and differences between Exmark and Scag, one finds the two surprisingly neck and neck in terms of popularity, affordability, production and success.

    By Lisa Larsen September 6th, 2022 Read More
  • Scotts Lawn Fertilizer & Pets

    Scotts Lawn Fertilizer & Pets. If you're a pet owner and are considering using Scotts lawn fertilizer products, you may be concerned for your pets' safety. Scotts suggests that no record of harm to pets or humans has been reported when its fertilizer is used. However, this only holds true if the fertilizer is applied by a professional Scotts technician. Many homeowners apply Scotts lawn fertilizer themselves. Understand the precautions and safety issues before fertilizing your lawn.

    By Lisa Larsen September 6th, 2022 Read More
  • Echo Model 650 Gas Leaf Blower Information

    Echo Model 650 Gas Leaf Blower Information. Echo has been manufacturing hand-held lawn equipment for over 30 years. They produce tools such as string trimmers, edgers, brush cutters, back pack blowers, hand-held blowers and chain saws for both residential and commercial use alike. At one time Echo tools were only available through specific Echo dealers. However, in 1994 Echo established a market through Home Depot and they now provide hand-held equipment for residential use.

    By Lisa Larsen September 6th, 2022 Read More
  • How To Start A Gas Weed Eater

    How to Start a Gas Weed Eater. Gas weed eaters, also known as string trimmers or weed whackers, are an invaluable tool when it comes to lawn maintenance. Their long shaft allows you to reach small places and areas that are difficult to navigate with a lawn mower. They are lightweight, making them easy to operate no matter your size or strength. The convenience of running on gas allows you to take them anywhere. Starting a gas weed eater is easy if you follow some simple steps.

    By Lisa Larsen September 6th, 2022 Read More
  • What Is The Benefit Of Two Blades Vs. One Blade On A Lawn Mower?

    What Is the Benefit of Two Blades Vs. One Blade on a Lawn Mower?. There are dozens of options to consider when purchasing a lawn mower. Engine size, ease of use, durability and warranty are just a sampling. One of the biggest considerations is cutting width. Cutting width is determined by the amount of blades a mower employs. A single-bladed mower has the smallest cutting width available. A mower with two blades has a significantly wider cutting width. If you own a large property with hills and berms, or if your grass is often uncontrollably long, a mower with two blades is your best choice.

    By Lisa Larsen March 24th, 2022 Read More
  • How To Change Scag Mower Blades

    How to Change Scag Mower Blades. Whether your Scag mower has two, three or four blades, the process of changing them is simple. There's no need to pay a mechanic to do the job. You can easily do it yourself. Very little time is necessary, and the only tool you need is an impact wrench. Worn mower blades leave uneven cuts. To ascertain whether or not your mower blades need to be replaced, examine the outermost cutting edge of each blade. If the edge is so thin that it is curling, or if grooves appear in the metal appear, the blade is no longer good.

    By Lisa Larsen March 23rd, 2022 Read More
  • The Differences Between Push & Self-Propelled Mowers

    The Differences Between Push & Self-Propelled Mowers. Many homeowners are willing to undertake the task of maintaining their own yards. For them the right type of lawnmower is of ultimate importance. However, there are several options to consider when it comes to selecting a lawnmower. Some mowers are self-propelled, meaning they literally propel themselves when a clutch is engaged. Other mowers require your muscle---you must push them yourself. Know the difference between a push mower and a self-propelled mower before making a purchase.

    By Lisa Larsen November 20th, 2021 Read More