The Strader's Blog

Help hydrangeas wake up naturally in spring with tips on when to prune, fertilize, and identify live wood for healthy blooms this season.

Learn when tree staking is necessary, how to stake properly, and why most young trees establish better without stakes for stronger long-term growth.

Use frost cloth to protect spring seedlings from frost, with top vegetables to cover, usage tips, and budget-friendly alternatives.

Support spring bees by leaving stems and leaf litter, planting early blooms, and providing water and bare soil for ground-nesting pollinators.

Check if your plants survived winter using the scratch test, visual clues, and flexible stem checks, plus tips to help your garden recover.

Use your April garden checklist to heal winter damage, feed plants, sow greens, divide perennials, and welcome early pollinators this season

Learn how to train your cat to use scratching posts with tips on placement, rewards, and choosing the right surfaces for scratching.

Ease into spring activities with your dog by starting slow, watching for fatigue, and enjoying safe walks, play, and outdoor fun together.

Create a backyard ecosystem by combining healthy soil, native plants, water, shelter, and food to support wildlife and biodiversity.

Mulch protects soil, conserves moisture, suppresses weeds, and feeds plants. Apply at the right time for a healthy, thriving garden.