Why You Must Wash Watermelon Before Slicing, According to Health Officials

Wash Watermelon

Food safety experts and health officials urge consumers to wash watermelon and other melons before slicing. A knife can transfer harmful bacteria like Salmonella and Listeria from the unwashed rind to the flesh, creating a significant risk of foodborne illness. Sources

8 Key Flowering Plants to Deadhead in August for a Healthier, More Vibrant Garden

Deadhead in August

Informed gardeners deadhead in August to prolong flowering and improve plant health. This essential summer garden maintenance diverts energy from seed production to create more blooms on plants like roses, dahlias, and petunias, ensuring vibrant color into the fall.

7 Plants Gardeners Always Mulch in Fall for Better Plants Next Spring and You Should Too

Mulch in Fall for Better Plants

The practice of Mulch in Fall for Better Plants is a critical strategy for garden care. Applying a protective layer of mulch in the fall insulates plant roots, prevents frost heaving, and enriches the soil, leading to healthier and more robust plants in the spring.

Is Your Kitchen Always Hot? 10 Easy Fixes That Work, according to HVAC Pros

Kitchen Always Hot

Is your kitchen always hot? According to HVAC professionals, a combination of simple fixes and strategic upgrades can significantly improve home comfort and energy efficiency. From utilizing range hoods to professional system check-ups, these 10 solutions address the root causes of heat to keep your kitchen cool.

From ‘One In, One Out’ to ‘None In, All Out’: Re-evaluating the Popular Decluttering Method

Decluttering Method

As experts challenge the popular “one in, one out” rule for decluttering, a new focus on mindful consumption and sustainability is emerging. This shift encourages a more thorough purge and a pause on new purchases, addressing the root causes of overconsumption rather than just managing the volume of belongings.

It’s Time to Pick Your Butternut Squash: 3 Signs It’s Definitely Ready to Harvest

Butternut Squash

Knowing when to pick butternut squash is crucial for flavor and storage. Three key signs signal readiness: a uniform beige color and hard skin, a dry and woody stem, and the natural browning of the vine. Properly harvested and cured, butternut squash can be stored for months.

No Bees or Butterflies in Your Garden? Here’s What Might Be Keeping Pollinators Away

No Bees or Butterflies in Your Garden

The absence of pollinators like bees and butterflies in home gardens is a symptom of significant global environmental challenges. Key factors include habitat loss, widespread pesticide use, and climate change, which disrupt the delicate balance of ecosystems. Understanding why there are no bees or butterflies in your garden can help guide conservation efforts.

A Pivotal Year for Global Export Crops Amid Geopolitical and Climate Shifts

Export Crops

The global trade of export crops is facing a pivotal year in 2025, with climate volatility and geopolitical shifts reshaping markets. Major agricultural producers are adopting new technologies and policies to meet demand for sustainability and traceability while navigating complex logistical and environmental challenges.

How 8 Common Bedroom Décor Mistakes Disrupt Relaxation and Sleep

Bedroom Décor Mistakes

Experts in design and psychology have identified eight critical bedroom décor mistakes that can hinder relaxation and disrupt sleep. From overstimulating color palettes and harsh lighting to the presence of clutter and technology, these common errors sabotage a restful environment.

How to Master the Space Above Your Kitchen Cabinets for Storage and Style

Space Above Your Kitchen Cabinets

The often-neglected space above kitchen cabinets is a prime opportunity for design and storage. Experts suggest using this vertical real estate for displaying art, adding greenery, or implementing smart kitchen storage solutions like baskets to transform a dusty gap into a functional feature.