Weeds

You yanked them all out just last week, and new ones have already popped up. “Be sure to pull existing weeds out at the roots, instead of breaking them off at the soil’s surface,” says Eric Darden, horticulture manager for the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, in Orlando, Florida. “And always remove them before they flower. Otherwise the flowers will release seeds and you’ll end up with even more weeds.” Once the bed is cleared, put down a two- to three-inch layer of any type of mulch. “Mulch blocks sunlight, so any remaining weed seeds can’t germinate,” says Darden. It also keeps soil moist, so your flowers will thrive.

A Pet

“If you need to find another loving home for a pet, post flyers in community centers, in veterinary offices, and on www.petfinder.com,” says Gail Buchwald, a senior vice president of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Include the animal’s vitals (age, breed, sex, health status) and characteristics (house-trained, great running partner), along with a picture. Be honest and open with a prospective adopter to ensure a good match.