It’s a pretty basic eco-fact that planting a tree is one of the best ways to give back to the Earth and beautify your property. But trees can be expensive, and nothing is worse than a living investment that ends up dying in the first year you plant it. When buying trees, ask your local nursery if they have any zero-risk guarantees. Many national retail chains and local stores will replace your tree for free if it dies in the first year. Save your receipt and take a photo of the dead specimen if it doesn’t work out.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Want to save money on all-natural and organic groceries where you shop? The secret has been there all along: coupons. As healthy food becomes more mainstream, national brands and supermarkets offer coupons through a variety of sources. Check the paper circulars in newspapers or at the entrance to the store. Check the store’s mobile app for digital coupons offering steep discounts on your favorite things. And even shopper saver cards can help you combine savings with coupons to get the best prices on organic treats and eats.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Lemons have myriad uses around the house beyond just cooking. You can use them for an instant beauty treatment by simply digging your clean, unpolished fingernails into the lemon; its natural antibacterial and whitening properties will help make your nails look cleaner and healthier. Rubbing a cut lemon over cutting boards helps disinfect and remove stains at the same time, too. When you’re done, toss the used lemons into your garbage disposal with ice and turn on your disposal (with the faucet running) to freshen it.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION