With so much news about the dangers of the chemical glysophate found in most commercial weed killers, you might wonder: What's an effective and natural alternative? If you'd rather not pull weeds out by hand, consider mixing together white vinegar, some liquid dish soap and salt to make a DIY spray. According to HGTV, all you need is a gallon of vinegar, a cup of salt and a tablespoon of soap. Mix well and spray on top of weeds. It works because the acidic mixture draws out moisture from the weeds. For large weeds with thick roots, pulling them out by hand will be the most effective method.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Invasive plants are exactly what they sound like: They grow where you don't want them to grow, and they can be nearly impossible to control. When planting a garden or landscaping around your house, there are some innocent-looking plants that can become invasive quickly. One to avoid: English ivy. Sure, it's hardy and can grow quickly to cover the ground and sides of walls, but it also spreads and chokes out native species. In fact, in the northwest part of the U.S., it's considered one of the worst invasive plant species.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Smart planning for your flowerbeds around the house can lead to significant water and time savings when caring for your gorgeous blooms. According to National Geographic, consider "companion planting" by grouping certain plants together to help them mutually grow. When taller, sun-loving plants are planted in the back with shorter, shade-loving plants in front, they help each other thrive. The taller plants block the sun's rays and also help reduce evaporation of water from the shorter plants. This symbiotic planting will help your flowerbeds thrive and grow almost all on their own.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION