Shala Munroe

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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 Shala Munroe

  • Lawn Care
    Lawn Care By Shala Munroe November 4th, 2022

    How To Rid Grass From Growing In Gravel

    How to Rid Grass From Growing in Gravel. After spending the time and money creating gravel pathways or islands in your landscaping, the last thing you want to see is grass growing in between the small rocks. Chemical herbicides, such as those containing glyphosate, are sprayed on the errant grass blades and can kill them within a day or two. However, if you don't want dangerous chemicals outside where your kids play, there are natural alternatives to get rid of the grass poking through your garden gravel using items you likely already have in your kitchen.

    By Shala Munroe November 4th, 2022 Read More
  • Lawn Care
    Lawn Care By Shala Munroe November 4th, 2022

    Should You Rake Your Lawn After It Has Been Aerated?

    Should You Rake Your Lawn After it Has Been Aerated?. Aerating your lawn helps improve drainage and gives the roots room to spread out to ensure a healthier, fuller appearance. Some lawns need aerating every year, although most can go two to three years before needing aerating -- which is good, if you don't like the look of brown plugs on your lawn. You don't have to rake the plugs left by aerating, but doing so gets nutrients back into the soil faster. And, it might give your kids something to do.

    By Shala Munroe November 4th, 2022 Read More
  • Flowers
    Flowers By Shala Munroe November 4th, 2022

    Can Metal Buckets Be Used As Flower Pots?

    Can Metal Buckets Be Used as Flower Pots?. Metal buckets make convenient containers for your flowering plants, and they bring a touch of rustic beauty or industrial style to your yard. Whether small or large, metal buckets need a bit of attention to make sure they are ready for your plants and can withstand years of wear and tear.

    By Shala Munroe November 4th, 2022 Read More
  • Flowers
    Flowers By Shala Munroe November 4th, 2022

    Do Hedge Clippers Cut Blackberry Bushes?

    Do Hedge Clippers Cut Blackberry Bushes?. Hedge clippers, which are powered by electricity or gas, make fast work of much of your pruning chores. They help you shape your hedges and shrubs, keeping uniform sizing and shaping. Hedge clippers cut through the branches of blackberry bushes (Rubus fruticosus) just as easily, but they aren't the best tool to use when pruning the berry canes, which grow in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 10.

    By Shala Munroe November 4th, 2022 Read More
  • Lawn Care
    Lawn Care By Shala Munroe September 6th, 2022

    What To Use To Kill Grass Around Trees

    What to Use to Kill Grass Around Trees. As a sun-loving species, grass might grow in a spotty pattern under the deep shade of a tree's canopy, leading to an unhealthy look that doesn't fit in with the rest of your landscaping. It can also be difficult to mow without damaging the tree. If having grass around your trees is too much trouble, there are several ways to kill it.

    By Shala Munroe September 6th, 2022 Read More