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Hearth & Bloom
2025 Garden Trends Report now available

Homes that
feel like home.
Gardens that
thrive.

Expert resources, honest tool reviews, and seasonal guidance for creating beautiful, sustainable living spaces.

Trusted by 142k homeowners
142k
MONTHLY READERS
3,240
GUIDES PUBLISHED
89
EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS
WHAT WE DO BEST

Expertise for every corner of your home & garden

Modern kitchen renovation with clean lines and natural materials
HOME IMPROVEMENT

Home Improvement

From structural renovations and load-bearing assessments to energy-efficient upgrades and smart home integrations. Our guides cover every phase of residential improvement with professional-grade detail.

Lush perennial garden with diverse flowering plants
GARDENING

Gardening

Learn to cultivate thriving perennial beds, master composting systems, and implement sustainable practices. Detailed seasonal calendars and soil health protocols included.

High-quality gardening tools arranged on wooden surface
TOOLS

Tools & Equipment

In-depth reviews of professional-grade equipment. Discover the best cordless tools, ergonomic hand implements, and smart irrigation systems for serious gardeners and DIYers.

Beautiful residential landscaping with stone pathways and native plants
LANDSCAPING

Landscaping

Professional design frameworks for front yards, backyard sanctuaries, and edible landscapes. Includes hardscaping techniques, drainage solutions, and native plant selection.

HANDS-ON TESTING

Tool Reviews

Bosch cordless drill
4.8 • 1,942 reviews

Bosch 18V Brushless Drill

Exceptional torque and battery life. We tested it extensively on load-bearing timber framing and found it performed 40% longer than comparable models. The ergonomic grip makes all-day use comfortable.

$189
Husqvarna hedge trimmer
4.9 • 876 reviews

Husqvarna 525iHD60 Hedge Trimmer

The best battery-powered hedge trimmer we've tested. Lightweight yet powerful enough for dense boxwood and privet. Excellent balance and low vibration for precision pruning work.

$329
Soil testing kit
4.7 • 1,103 reviews

LusterLeaf 1601 Soil Test Kit

Highly accurate digital pH and nutrient tester. Essential for any serious gardener. We verified results against lab testing and found it remarkably precise for home use.

$49
SEASONAL PLANNING

Plan a garden that lasts a lifetime

Successful gardens begin with thoughtful planning. Start by evaluating your microclimate, soil composition, and available sunlight throughout the day. Our experts recommend performing a soil test before selecting any plants to determine pH levels and nutrient deficiencies.

Perennials are the backbone of a low-maintenance landscape. Varieties such as coneflower, hosta, and Russian sage return year after year, reducing replanting costs and providing reliable structure. Pair these with annuals for seasonal color bursts.

Composting is essential for long-term soil health. A well-managed compost pile transforms kitchen scraps and yard waste into rich organic matter that improves drainage, retains moisture, and supports beneficial microbial life.

Beautiful layered garden with perennials and stone edging
THIS SEASON
Planting zone: 7a
Last frost: March 18
COMPOSTING
Active piles: 2
INTERACTIVE TOOL

Seasonal Planting Advisor

Answer a few quick questions and receive personalized plant recommendations based on your conditions.

PROFESSIONAL DESIGN

Transform your outdoor space

Our landscaping resources include complete project blueprints, plant lists by region, and step-by-step installation guides written by certified landscape architects.

Stone patio with seating area
Hardscaping 101
Patios, pathways, and retaining walls that last decades.
Native plant border garden
Native Plant Borders
Low-water, pollinator-friendly designs for any region.
FROM OUR COMMUNITY

Real results from real homes

Read all stories
Sarah Chen
Sarah Chen
Homeowner • Portland, OR
"The perennial guide completely changed how I approached my front yard. I now have a thriving pollinator garden that requires almost no watering. The composting instructions were especially helpful."
— Used 4 guides in 2024
Marcus Rivera
Marcus Rivera
DIY Enthusiast • Austin, TX
"The Bosch drill review saved me from buying the wrong tool. I used their load-bearing wall guide when building my backyard deck. Everything turned out perfectly and passed inspection."
— 9 projects completed
Elena Patel
Elena Patel
Landscape Designer • Chicago, IL
"I recommend Hearth & Bloom to all my clients. Their seasonal planting advisor is incredibly accurate. The tool reviews have helped me source the best equipment for professional installations."
— Professional member since 2021

Latest from the Journal

View full blog
Perennial garden
Feb 3, 2025 • Gardening

7 Perennials That Will Thrive in Urban Gardens

Choosing the right plants is key to success in small spaces with limited sunlight.

Read article
Home renovation
Jan 28, 2025 • Home Improvement

How to Safely Assess Load-Bearing Walls Before Renovation

Essential steps for DIYers planning structural changes in older homes.

Read article
Composting
Jan 19, 2025 • Gardening

The Complete Guide to Backyard Composting Systems

From simple bins to advanced tumblers — which system is right for your space.

Read article

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I start composting if I live in an apartment?
Use a countertop compost bin or worm composting system (vermicomposting). Many cities offer curbside compost pickup programs. Focus on kitchen scraps and avoid meat and dairy.
What are the best low-maintenance perennials for beginners?
Coneflowers, daylilies, hostas, and sedum are excellent choices. These plants are resilient, drought-tolerant once established, and return each year with minimal care.
How can I tell if a wall is load-bearing before remodeling?
Check the direction of floor joists, look for walls that run perpendicular to floorboards, and consult the original blueprints. Always consult a structural engineer for safety.
When is the best time to plant perennials in my region?
In most temperate climates, early spring or early fall are ideal. This gives roots time to establish before extreme weather. Always check your local USDA hardiness zone.