how to: add style to your home

Is your home just crying for a makeover? Whether you're looking to do a total redecorating job, need help merging your styles, or just want to give a room a little pick-me-up, you're in the right place with our expert decorating advice. Choosing your decor style can be tricky territory for newlyweds, especially if you've never lived together and your home styles aren't entirely in sync. But even if you've been sharing your space for a while, choosing your decor style means incorporating both of your needs. So where to begin? If you're starting from scratch or looking to redecorate, you need to think big. Luckily, we've got expert decorating advice on key rooms, from 5 tips for a luxurious living room to 6 secrets for a sexy bedroom. Have a question about more specific home styles? You'll find stylish solutions to all your questions, from best bedding options to doing over your bathroom. Or do you just want ideas for easy (and inexpensive!) decor fixes? Spice up your living space with our tips on budget bedroom makeovers, easy decor tricks, and displaying photos and art. We've also tracked down fabulous decor finds to suit all different home styles, including shabby-chic favorites, decor picks on a budget, and colorful kitchen accents. And check out style how-tos on everything from dressing up your mantel and arranging your coffee table with flair to creating beautiful blooming arrangements and using feng shui. With our expert decorating advice, choosing your decor style is simple.

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How to Know When to Plant a Garden

The best time of year to plant your garden totally depends on what you’re planting and where you live. The last frost is often a signal it’s time to start digging in the dirt. Here’s info on some of the most common plants:

Photo: Shutterstock

Perennials

Perennials come back in bloom every year, offering you tons of summers filled with flowery joy with just one planting! Plus you can plant them in both spring and fall. If they’ve been kept outside at the nursery, it’s safe to plant them pretty early in the spring. Most will also root well in the fall and be ready to bloom beautifully the following spring and summer.

Annuals

Annuals only bloom once -- they die in the winter -- so spring is clearly the time for planting. If you live in a cold-weather area, wait until the frost has cleared and the soil has warmed up to start your planting.

Bulbs

Bulbs should always be planted in the fall. They need a good period of hibernation before they come up and bloom in the spring.

Fruits & Veggies

Most should be planted in the spring months -- April to June -- but some fruits, such as raspberries and strawberries, can also be planted in the late fall.

Still not certain when it’s safe to plant? You can find your climate zone here.

-- Paula Kashtan

Oct 06, 2010

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