Create a beautiful space that makes our world a better place! The Easy Living Yards Podcast helps you have a beautiful ecological landscape. Landscape Designer and host Ben Hale discusses topics on native gardening, ecological landscaping, pollinator gardening, natural play areas, and more.
Your Yard is Habitat-ELY111
Show Notes - Your Yard is Habitat - Episode 111 Kara Maynard, Deeply Rooted Landscapes Today I have the pleasure to welcome Kara Maynard of Deeply Rooted Landscapes in Dayton Ohio. We’re chatting about “Your Yard is Habitat” – how your yard can make an impact and why you should [...]
7/21/2021 • 53 minutes, 13 seconds
Rain Containers – ELY110
Why you already love rain containers but just didn't know it yet... Show Notes Why you should consider rain containers Whether you call them rain barrels, rain containers, or rain catchment systems, capturing the rain provides healthy water for your landscape and helps reduce our burden on stressed stormwater systems. [...]
5/20/2021 • 39 minutes, 31 seconds
How to design a beautiful garden-ELY109
Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode109 How to create a landscape vision Find your landscape design style How to design like a pro Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder Tool Ask Ben a Question for Free! Easy Living yards can help you create your beautiful yard, no matter your budget or location. [...]
4/29/2021 • 45 minutes, 7 seconds
Ecological Landscaping – You can make a difference ELY108
Ecological Landscaping - Your actions matter - Show Notes Why your conscious choices make a difference Today’s links: ely.how/episode108 Eco Friendly Landscaping Facebook Group Find your local Wild Ones chapter to find like-minded people Ask Ben a Question for Free! Easy Living yards can help you create your beautiful yard, [...]
8/7/2020 • 36 minutes, 9 seconds
Prairie Gardening – Ecological Landscaping ELY107
How to create a prairie garden - Show Notes Creating a prairie garden A prairie garden, meadow garden, wildflower garden – whatever you want to call it – is a beautiful ecological landscaping to provide healthy native plant habitat in your yard in a beautiful low maintenance way. In this [...]
7/31/2020 • 36 minutes, 38 seconds
How to Start Eco Friendly Landscaping – ELY 106
How to Start Eco Friendly Landscaping - Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode106 Sign up for the webinar on July 9 2020 "5 Easy Steps to an Eco Friendly Yard" Members Jen & Gary - Awesome example of Eco Friendly Landscaping Join the "I Help Save The Earth" Club How to create a Rain [...]
7/2/2020 • 36 minutes, 53 seconds
Organic Gardening Basics – ELY105
Organic Gardening Basics - Show Notes Have you dreamed of walking into your yard to a fresh organic garden? Do you want to know how to start a garden? This episode covers the basics of how to garden if you have no idea where to start! Resources for How to start a garden: [...]
6/9/2020 • 1 hour, 8 seconds
Beautiful Eco-Friendly Landscaping-ELY104
Beautiful Eco-Friendly Landscaping with Jen & Gary - ELY 104 - Show Notes Today I talk with Jen and Gary on a membership call about their eco landscaping plans and how to focus all of their cool ideas into a cohesive landscape design that works for them! Join us to hear about their [...]
5/8/2020 • 1 hour, 5 minutes, 11 seconds
Applying Permaculture-ELY103
Applying Permaculture - Show Notes We talked about permaculture in Episode 101. But how does this thing called permaculture apply to real life? Today, we talk about how to apply permaculture in a way that it improves our life! Today’s links: easylivingyards.com/episode103 Gaia’s Garden by Toby Hemenway The Suburban Micro Farm by Amy [...]
4/22/2020 • 34 minutes, 27 seconds
Garden Season Kickoff 2020 – ELY102
Easy Gardening Season Kickoff 2020 - Show Notes Let's step away from life's drudgery and stress and think about how we can make a positive change in our lives and world with some simple focus on the land around our house that we call a yard. What are you jazzed about for your [...]
4/15/2020 • 12 minutes, 42 seconds
What is Permaculture-ELY 101
What is permaculture? - Show Notes I love permaculture. But what is it? Today we cover what permaculture is and how it has the potential to change your worldview and life. Permaculture is a design concept has certainly changed my entire worldview and impacts everything I do. 100 episodes in, time to talk [...]
2/5/2020 • 44 minutes, 39 seconds
Snapshots-ELY100
ELY100 - Snapshots - Show Notes Today is cause for celebration! Reflecting on a journey of 100 episodes focused on positive change. Thanks to all of you who have helped to manifest my vision of creating beautiful, purposeful, eco friendly landscapes across the US and world! Together, our small changes in practice and [...]
1/17/2020 • 29 minutes, 47 seconds
2020 Goals-ELY099
ELY 099 - 2020 Goals: Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode99 Ask Ben a Question for Free! Create the yard you deserve in the ELY Membership! Find me on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest 2020 Goals for a new decade Are you ready for a new decade? Well it’s here! Let’s work together to structure [...]
1/8/2020 • 34 minutes, 2 seconds
DIY Landscaping Mistakes-ELY098
Show Notes There's not much better than making fun of yourself, right? Today, I share some of my recent DIY landscaping mistakes, and what we can all learn from them. Today’s links: ely.how/episode98 Today’s Plant: American Beautyberry, more on Beautyberry All about healthy soil How to design your yard like a pro Front [...]
12/18/2019 • 42 minutes, 4 seconds
How to Compost-ELY097
How to Compost - Show Notes Learn how to compost! Composting can be super easy and is awesome for your yard! If you want to learn how to compost at home it can seem really overwhelming and complex. It doesn't have to be! Learn how to compost the easy way and why it [...]
12/11/2019 • 36 minutes, 51 seconds
Healthy Soil and Why You Should Care-ELY096
Healthy soil and why you should care! - Show Notes Today I am sharing a throwback episode! We cover the basics of understanding soil health, and why this is incredibly important for low maintenance landscaping and eco friendly landscaping! Soil is the basis for plant life! Good healthy soil makes good healthy plants. [...]
12/4/2019 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 55 seconds
Listener QA-ELY095
Listener Questions and Feedback for Nov19 - Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode88 Leave a review in Apple Podcasts! Best DIY Landscaping episodes: ELY 047 Pollinator Gardening Ideas: ELY 062 Ask Ben a Question for Free! Create the yard you deserve in the ELY Membership! Find me on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest Today, I [...]
11/27/2019 • 28 minutes, 37 seconds
Best gifts for gardeners and new homeowners – ELY 094
Best Gifts for Gardeners and new homeowners - Show Notes As we approach the holiday season, here are some of the best gardening gift ideas for that gardener just getting started, or a few years in. If you know a new homeowner that needs to tackle some outdated landscaping, these tools should be [...]
11/20/2019 • 38 minutes, 40 seconds
How to create a visual oasis-Laura-ELY093
Laura's Landscape: Easy Landscaping Ideas for a visual oasis to replace ugly landscaping - Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode93 Watch my chat with Laura on YouTube! Ask Ben a Question for Free! Create the yard you deserve in the ELY Membership! Find me on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest Today we chat with Laura [...]
11/13/2019 • 25 minutes, 5 seconds
Landscaping for unique circumstances – Special needs – ELY 092
Landscaping for unique situations: Special needs and life stages - Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode92 Join the next live session: EasyLivingYards.com/Live Natural Play Ideas on Pinterest Ask Ben a Question for Free! Create the yard you deserve in the ELY Membership! Find me on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest Landscapes are a place to [...]
11/6/2019 • 44 minutes, 12 seconds
Old Growth Forests-ELY091
Old Growth Forests with Joan Maloof - Show Notes Have you ever wondered what life was like for Pocahontas? I do. Joan Maloof preserves the places that let you escape to a time before the earth was just a dead thing you can claim. Joan Maloof of the Old Growth Forest Network is [...]
10/30/2019 • 38 minutes, 56 seconds
Embracing Energy and Nature Spirits – ELY 090
Embracing energy and nature spirits - Show Notes Amanda Gates is an interior designer. But not just any interior designer. She’s an advanced feng shui practitioner! Amanda Gates from the Home Energy Design Podcast joins us today to discuss how our energy and the energy of our spaces can positively or negatively affect [...]
10/23/2019 • 36 minutes, 36 seconds
Why do you matter?
Why do you matter? My commitment to a better world - Show Notes Why the heck are we talking about living with purpose? I thought this was a landscaping podcast? Well, to me it's obvious. How you live your life and whether you live with purpose and intent affects everything else in your [...]
10/16/2019 • 17 minutes, 53 seconds
Speak for the Trees! – ELY088
I Speak for the trees! - Show Notes Today we talk about these amazing creatures that live longer than humans and are way more numerous than humans. Trees! Trees are amazing creatures, and they need our help. YOUR help! Here are things you can do for the trees and why it matters today [...]
10/9/2019 • 14 minutes, 13 seconds
Join the I Help Save the Earth Club! – ELY 087
Join the I Help Save The Earth Club! Today’s links: ely.how/episode87 Free guide: How to live with purpose and intent What my Grandma taught me about living a meaningful life Suzanne Simard - How trees talk to each other Ask Ben a Question for Free! Create the yard you deserve in the ELY [...]
10/2/2019 • 38 minutes, 8 seconds
Awesome Fall Garden Plants-ELY086
Awesome Fall Garden Plants - Show Notes Fall is a beautiful time! Celebrate the season in your yard with beautiful plants that bring beautiful color and interest to your yard! We highlight fall trees and fall perennials with awesome bursts of color for your yard. Today’s links: ely.how/episode86 Goldenrod (Solidago spp) New England [...]
9/25/2019 • 26 minutes, 50 seconds
Outdoor entertainment with Welcome Home-ELY085
Easy Swanky Outdoor Entertaining with Welcome Home! - Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode85 The Welcome Home Podcast Free Q&A with Ben Hale Find me on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest How can you easily entertain outdoors without breaking the bank or getting overwhelmed? Kirsten Dunlap and Graham Smith from the Welcome Home Podcast Awesome podcast [...]
9/18/2019 • 32 minutes, 56 seconds
What to expect with easy DIY landscaping – ELY 084
What to expect with Easy DIY Landscaping - Show Notes Today’s links: Get started today! What is the one question you need to ask me? Ask it here! ELY Membership: Transform your yard with confidence Find me on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest What to expect with easy DIY landscaping – 9 month garden [...]
9/11/2019 • 26 minutes, 36 seconds
How to Create your Dream Yard – ELY083
Create the Dream Yard You Deserve - Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode83 Landscape vision and goals – Episode 72 View your yard like a pro Create the yard you deserve in the ELY Membership! Ask a question Find me on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest Create the dream yard you deserve! What a dream [...]
9/4/2019 • 20 minutes, 4 seconds
Fungus Amongus – ELY 082
There's a fungus amongus! - Show Notes Today, we discover that fungus is not only a good thing in your landscape, it is crucial to a healthy and happy garden! Why fungus is beneficial for plants and soil! Today’s links: ely.how/episode82 Boost your soil and plants: Mykos mycorrhizal fungi inoculant Soil and why it [...]
8/28/2019 • 29 minutes, 16 seconds
How to overcome DIY overwhelm – ELY 081
How to Overcome DIY Landscaping Overwhelm - Show Notes Let's face it. DIY Landscaping can be overwhelming! Here are ways to avoid getting overwhelmed with your low maintenance landscaping ideas and how to focus on getting things done and making life better! Today’s links: ely.how/episode81 Free Easy Plants list Landscaping with Vision - [...]
8/21/2019 • 26 minutes, 41 seconds
DIY landscaping help – Ask a question! – ELY 080
Landscaping Q & A - Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode80 Ask a question! Create the yard you deserve in the ELY Membership! Find me on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest Get DIY Landscaping help with your yard You can ask me a question about your yard! EasyLivingYards.com/pod Click on “Ask a Question” How we [...]
8/14/2019 • 17 minutes, 25 seconds
Landscaping to prevent erosion in your yard – ELY 079
Landscaping to prevent soil erosion in your yard - Show Notes Today's episode covers causes, solutions, and prevention of erosion in your yard. Erosion can cause cosmetic or serious damage to your landscape if not managed properly. Here's how to manage soil erosion properly. Today’s links: ely.how/episode79 Erosion control plants Big bluestem (Andropogon [...]
8/7/2019 • 25 minutes, 12 seconds
DIY Landscaping with Amy Fedele from Pretty Purple Door
Easy DIY Landscaping with Amy Fedele - Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode78 PrettyPurpleDoor.com free bloom pairing guide! Ask me a question! Find me on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest Easy DIY Landscaping Today Amy and I discuss various topics for easy low maintenance landscaping How to DIY without being afraid of failure Pretty year-round [...]
7/31/2019 • 31 minutes, 26 seconds
Rain Garden Design – ELY 077
How to build a rain garden - Show Notes Rain Garden Episode Links: ely.how/episode77 Free Rainwater Calculator Tool Free list of easy plants for your rain garden Five super cool ideas for a beautiful rain garden Create the yard you deserve in the ELY Membership! Ask a question Find me on Facebook, Instagram, [...]
7/24/2019 • 30 minutes, 26 seconds
Safe Mosquito Control – Part 2
Safe Mosquito Control for your Family - Part 2 - Show Notes Today we pick up from last last episode to discuss five ways to control mosquito problems in your yard, so you can better enjoy being outdoors with your family, and feel safe from mosquitos and harsh chemicals. If you missed last [...]
7/17/2019 • 22 minutes, 10 seconds
Safe Mosquito Control
Safe Mosquito Control for your Family - Show Notes Today we cover five ways to control mosquito problems in your yard, so you can better enjoy being outdoors with your family, and feel safe from mosquitos and harsh chemicals. Links for safe mosquito control: ely.how/mosquito BT dunks – safe mosquito control in water [...]
7/10/2019 • 35 minutes, 24 seconds
Xeriscaping – Drought tolerant landscaping
Xeriscaping - Show Notes Xeriscaping: Drought tolerant landscaping Xeriscaping is creating drought-friendly landscaping that looks beautiful and is well-adapted to drought conditions. Learn how to create your own drought-tolerant landscaping in today's episode! Today’s links: ely.how/episode74 Free rainwater calculator tool Create the yard you deserve in the ELY Membership! Ask a question Find [...]
7/3/2019 • 17 minutes, 47 seconds
Quick and Easy Low Maintenance Landscaping – ELY 073
Quick and Easy Low Maintenance Landscaping - Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode73 Free Resources for Easy Low Maintenance Landscaping Landscaping with focus and vision – Episode 72 Easy lawn care – Episode 61 Garden edging made easy – Episode 28 How to start a new garden bed – Episode 10 Easy plants for [...]
6/26/2019 • 14 minutes, 49 seconds
DIY Landscaping with vision – ELY 072
Landscape like a pro with a clear vision - Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode72 Free Download: Design like a pro with a fresh perspective Create the yard you deserve in the ELY Membership! Ask a question Find me on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest Landscaping with focus and vision Most common landscaping error – [...]
6/19/2019 • 24 minutes, 40 seconds
Relax and Chill in your yard – ELY 071
Relax and Chill - Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode71 Free Download: Design like a pro with a fresh perspective Create the yard you deserve in the ELY Membership! Ask a question Find me on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest Relax and chill – it’s just your yard! Low maintenance landscaping starts with the right [...]
6/12/2019 • 22 minutes, 33 seconds
Invasive plants to avoid in your yard – ELY070
Invasive Plants and their Native Plant Alternatives - Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode70 Free download: Low maintenance plants for the US You deserve a beautiful yard. Create yours with the ELY Membership! Ask a question Find me on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest Ten invasive plants to avoid and awesome native plants to replace [...]
6/5/2019 • 40 minutes, 57 seconds
Big Design Small Budget
Big Design Small Budget - Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode69 Big Design Interview Freebies Affordable Interior Design with Betsy Helmuth Big Design Small Budget Podcast Transform with confidence in the ELY Membership! Ask a question Find me on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest Exterior-Interior Design – Big Design Small Budget Tools for landscape expression [...]
5/29/2019 • 41 minutes, 31 seconds
Avoid the WRONG plants – ELY 068
Avoid the WRONG plants for your yard - Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode68 You deserve a beautiful yard. Get there with the ELY Membership! Episode 9 – The right plants for your yard Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder Tool Episode 17 – Native plants and exotic plants Ask a question Find me on [...]
5/22/2019 • 18 minutes, 18 seconds
Safe and Natural Weed Control – ELY 067
Safe and Natural Weed Control - Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode67 Easy Lawn Care – Episode 61 You deserve a beautiful yard. Get there with the ELY Membership! Ask a question Find me on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest Safe and natural weed control for weed problems Why we hate weeds Desire for order [...]
5/15/2019 • 30 minutes, 9 seconds
Epic Gardening Podcast 2 – ELY 066
Epic Gardening, Part 2 - Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode66 Epic Gardening with Kevin Espiritu Epic Gardening Show giveaways First series with Epic Gardening – Episode 65 Transform with confidence in the ELY Membership! Ask a question Find me on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest Epic Gardening with Kevin Espiritu – Part 2 5. [...]
5/8/2019 • 43 minutes, 59 seconds
Epic Gardening Podcast 1 – ELY 065
Epic Gardening - Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode65 Epic Gardening with Kevin Espiritu Epic Gardening Show giveaways Transform with confidence in the ELY Membership! Ask a question Find me on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest Epic Gardening with Kevin Espiritu 1. Living with purpose through landscapes What we do matters Our time is valuable [...]
5/1/2019 • 44 minutes, 34 seconds
Express your home with these DIY landscaping tips
How to express your home through your landscape - Show Notes How do you make sure your landscape and your house pair well? I talk about two different ways to make your landscape and your home work together: Transitioning the built and natural environmnents, and accenting your home's architecture. Find out what works [...]
4/24/2019 • 20 minutes, 13 seconds
DIY Landscaping Mistakes
Avoid these DIY landscaping mistakes! - Show Notes Avoid these common DIY landscaping mistakes to save time, money, and stress in your landscaping! These DIY landscaping blunders are easy to avoid which will help make your yard look awesome and bring you more joy and relaxation! Who doesn't love that?!?! Today’s links: ely.how/episode63 [...]
4/17/2019 • 40 minutes, 17 seconds
Butterfly gardens and Pollinator Gardens
Butterfly Gardens and Pollinator Gardens - Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode62 Pollinator Garden Plants for the Midwest Episode 10 – how to start a new garden bed Xerces Society Pollinator Garden Plants Xerces Society Books Gardening for Butterflies Attracting Native Pollinators Here are a bunch of other butterfly gardening resources in this post! [...]
4/10/2019 • 24 minutes, 32 seconds
Easy Lawn Care
Easy Lawn Care: Have a beautiful lawn without a bunch of work! Today’s links: ely.how/episode61 How to start a new garden bed Free downloads - Easy plant selector guide! ELY Membership: Transform your yard with confidence Ask a question Find me on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest Easy Lawn Care Three ways for low [...]
4/3/2019 • 36 minutes, 47 seconds
Cost saving strategies for landscaping
Show Notes Cost saving strategies for diy landscaping on a budget Today’s links: ely.how/episode60 Low Maintenance Plants for the Midwest Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Plant Database Affordable landscaping plant plugs – The Pollennation Save time and money with the ELY Membership! Ask a question Find me on Facebook, [...]
3/27/2019 • 29 minutes, 44 seconds
Landscaping Ideas on a Budget – ELY 059
Landscaping Ideas on a Budget - Show Notes DIY landscaping on a budget Today’s links: ely.how/episode59 Do it right the first time with the ELY Membership! How to design like a pro – Episode 43 Design basics for your yard – Episode 5 What to do before starting a project – Episode 6 [...]
3/20/2019 • 32 minutes, 19 seconds
What is your story – ELY 058
What is your story? - Show Notes We're all the hero in our own story. Are you ready to fulfill your destiny? Today’s links: ely.how/episode58 Live your story with the ELY Membership! Ask a question Find me on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest Today we explore how you are part of an epic [...]
3/11/2019 • 20 minutes, 28 seconds
Landscaping Ideas for Kids – ELY 057
Backyard ideas for kids - Show notes Kid friendly landscaping Today's Links: ely.how/episode57 Backyard ideas for kids - Episode 27 Pinterest - Natural Playscape inspiration Ask a question Find me on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest How kids view, interact, and engage with their yards. Today's show covers how our kids enjoy our yard [...]
3/6/2019 • 47 minutes, 40 seconds
Front yard Landscaping with Confidence – ELY 056
Front Yard Landscaping Update - Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode56 Today’s Plant: Prairie Dropseed Join the Easy Living Yards Membership Ask a question Find me on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest Front Yard Landscaping Ideas Update on our front yard landscaping project Finished! Goals Enhance access Enhance beauty Increase value Reduce maintenance Increase [...]
2/27/2019 • 44 minutes, 50 seconds
DIY Shed Tips – ELY 055
DIY Shed Tips - Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode55 Today’s Plant: Ozark Witch Hazel Roof pitch guidelines Join the membership Ask a question Find me on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest DIY Shed Tips This is a big project – make sure you plant it well! Friends Specific ‘project days’ are very useful Do [...]
2/20/2019 • 45 minutes, 51 seconds
My DIY Landscaping Mistakes – ELY 054
My DIY Landscaping Mistakes - Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode54 Join the Easy Living Yards Membership Today’s Plant: American Beautyberry, more on Beautyberry All about healthy soil How to design your yard like a pro Front yard vegetables Living with neighbors Free Stuff at ELY.how/free! Ask a question Find me on Facebook, Twitter, or [...]
2/13/2019 • 38 minutes, 40 seconds
Simple Landscaping Ideas for 2019 – ELY 053
Simple Landscaping Ideas - Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode53 Today’s Plant: Creeping thyme Front Yard Curb Appeal Ideas DIY mailbox installation Easy Potted Plants Low maintenance lawn care Simple Landscaping Ideas on Pinterest Join the Easy Living Yards Membership Free Stuff at ELY.how/free! Ask a question Find me on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest [...]
2/6/2019 • 23 minutes, 59 seconds
Outdoor Winter Activities for Kids – ELY 052
Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode52 Today’s Plant: Eastern White Pine Leave a review in iTunes Epic Gardening interviews Backyard ideas for kids Free Stuff at ELY.how/free! Get 1-1 help with Ben Ask a question Find me on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest Fun things to do in the winter outside Stuff you need Winter [...]
1/30/2019 • 47 minutes, 8 seconds
Yard Drainage Solutions – ELY 051
Yard Drainage Solutions - show notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode51 Today’s Plant: Fringed sedge Join the Easy Living Yards Membership! Free Stuff at ELY.how/free! Ask a question Find me on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest Yard drainage tips Causes Compaction Dense soil – clay, low organic matter Shallow soil High water table Poor grading / [...]
1/23/2019 • 35 minutes, 56 seconds
DIY with Confidence – ELY 050
DIY Landscaping with confidence How to DIY your landscape with confidence Today’s links: ely.how/episode50 Become a founding member! Free Stuff at ELY.how/free! Get 1-1 help with Ben Ask a question Find me on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest Today is the founding launch of the membership! Become a founding member! Why I [...]
1/16/2019 • 31 minutes, 2 seconds
Ultimate Mailbox Installation Guide – ELY 049
The Ultimate DIY Mailbox Installation Guide Today’s links: ely.how/episode49 Download The Ultimate DIY Mailbox Installation Guide My super cute mailbox installation helper USPS recommendations Post level Post hole digger Spud bar Today’s Plant: The revered, ephemeral tulip Free Stuff at ELY.how/free! Get Early Access to the upcoming Membership! Ask a question Find me [...]
1/9/2019 • 40 minutes, 7 seconds
ELY 048 – What are your DIY Landscaping goals for 2019?
Easy DIY Landscaping Ideas - Setting goals for a new year! Get inspired to improve your yard this year! Save time and effort from needless maintenance. Make DIY landscaping easy! Today’s links: ely.how/episode48 Today’s Plant: Switchgrass Membership Early Access Club Find me on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest Starting the year with focus and [...]
1/2/2019 • 19 minutes, 13 seconds
ELY 047 – DIY Landscaping best from 2018
Best DIY Landscaping tips from 2018 - Show Notes Thank you for such an amazing year! I've had a blast with launching this podcast, and have enjoyed helping you to make a positive impact in your yard and life. As a reward to yourself, please take a moment to reflect on how you [...]
12/27/2018 • 24 minutes, 41 seconds
ELY 046 – Gardening gift ideas under $30
Last minute gardening gifts under $30 - Show Notes Best gardening gift ideas and DIY Landscaping gift ideas under $30 Today’s links: ely.how/episode46 Today’s Plant: American Holly Free Stuff at ELY.how/free! Get 1-1 help with Ben Ask a question Find me on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest Merry Christmas! The Hale family wishes you [...]
12/19/2018 • 24 minutes, 30 seconds
ELY 045 – DIY Landscaping Gift Ideas
DIY Landscaping Gift Ideas - Show Notes Best gardening gift ideas and DIY Landscaping gift ideas Today’s links: ely.how/episode45 Today’s Plant: Aloe vera Free Stuff at ELY.how/free! Get 1-1 help with Ben Ask a question Find me on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest Hand tools Garden spade Pointed shovel Flat shovel Mattock Sod lifter [...]
12/12/2018 • 35 minutes, 40 seconds
ELY 044 – How Easy Living Yards gives back
How Easy Living Yards gives back - Show Notes Links: ely.how/episode44 Today’s Plant: Sansevieria Express your gratitude - leave a review on iTunes! Learn how insignificant your lawn is Free Stuff at ELY.how/free! Get 1-1 help with Ben Ask a question Find me on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest Our core business is built [...]
12/5/2018 • 17 minutes, 50 seconds
ELY 043 – How to design your yard like a pro
Design your DIY landscaping like a pro - Show Notes How to start designing a landscape Today’s links: ely.how/episode43 Style your landscape like a pro Design basics for your yard Today’s Plant: Moss Phlox Free Stuff at ELY.how/free! Get 1-1 help with Ben Ask a question Find me on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest What [...]
11/28/2018 • 22 minutes, 35 seconds
ELY 042 – How to find your landscape design style
How to find your design style - Show Notes What is your design style? Today’s links: ely.how/episode42 DIY landscape design basics for your yard Find ideas on Pinterest Find ideas on Houzz Today’s Plant: Serviceberry Free Stuff at ELY.how/free! Get 1-1 help with Ben Ask a question Find me on Facebook, Twitter, or [...]
11/21/2018 • 23 minutes, 54 seconds
ELY 041 – Avoiding Overwhelm with DIY Landscaping
Avoid Overwhelm with DIY Landscaping - Show Notes How to avoid overwhelm with DIY landscaping Today’s links: ely.how/episode41 How to view your yard like a pro Today’s Plant: Allium ‘Millenium’ What course do you want about landscaping? Free Stuff at ELY.how/free! Get 1-1 help with Ben Ask a question Find me on Facebook, [...]
11/14/2018 • 26 minutes, 45 seconds
ELY 040 – DIY Landscaping at our house
DIY Landscaping Update at the Hale House - Show Notes What’s going on with the Hale's DIY Landscaping Today’s links: ely.how/episode40 How to view your yard like a pro Free Stuff at ELY.how/free! Get 1-1 help with Ben Ask a question Find me on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest DIY Landscaping Update outline Shift [...]
11/7/2018 • 42 minutes, 52 seconds
ELY 039 – What to do in your yard each season?
What to do in your yard each season - Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode39 Fall Maintenance Tips The Twice a Year Garden How to save 27 hours of work How to save time mowing your lawn Today’s Plant: Juniper ‘Compressa’ Free Stuff at ELY.how/free! Get 1-1 help with Ben Ask a question Find [...]
10/31/2018 • 31 minutes, 7 seconds
ELY 038 – Get more time with your family today!
Spending more time together as a family - Show Notes How to get more time for your family today Today’s links: ely.how/episode38 Living with purpose and passion What my Grandma taught me about our time here How to Train a Train Consultation special: Use code fall2018 at checkout! Today’s Plant: Hen & Chicks (Hen-widdies, [...]
10/24/2018 • 33 minutes, 37 seconds
ELY 037 – Outdoor Fall Activities for Kids
Outdoor fall activities for kids - Show Notes Today’s links: ely.how/episode37 The best time savers for easy landscaping Backyard Ideas for Kids Today’s Plant: Ninebark Free Stuff at ELY.how/free! Ask a question Need Help? Consult with Ben! Facebook Twitter Outdoor Fall Activities for Kids - Show Outline Raking leaves Leaf piles Mudpies & Outdoor [...]
10/17/2018 • 34 minutes, 55 seconds
ELY 036 – Fall Maintenance Tips
Show Notes Fall Maintenance Tips Today’s links: ely.how/episode36 Save 20% to Consult with Ben! Now through Oct 31, 2018. Use code fall2018 Healthy low maintenance lawn care Easy lawn care time savers Why compost is awesome Free Easy Plants List at ELY.how/free! Today’s Plant: Red Maple Ask a question Facebook Twitter Leaf removal [...]
10/10/2018 • 42 minutes, 29 seconds
Easy DIY Fall Decor
Easy DIY Fall Decor Outdoor Fall Decor really can be easy. We cover DIY Fall Decor that is super simple, fun for the whole family, and creates cherished memories. Today’s links: ely.how/episode35 Pinterest: Fall Decoration Ideas Pinterest: Awesome fall grasses Prairie Dropseed Little Bluestem Pink Muhly Grass, Muhly Grass ‘Autumn Embers’ Sedges Today’s [...]
10/3/2018 • 39 minutes, 14 seconds
ELY 034 – Easy Container Gardening
Show Notes Do you love outdoor planters but hate having to take care of them? Use these container gardening tips to find the right plants and easy beauty. Today’s links: ely.how/episode34 Self watering planter how to video Pinterest – Planter ideas TruDrop Self watering planter Today’s Plant: Christmas Fern Free Stuff at ELY.how/free! [...]
9/26/2018 • 39 minutes, 21 seconds
ELY 033 – Front Yard Curb Appeal Ideas
Easy front yard curb appeal ideas Today’s links: ely.how/episode33 ELY 028 - Garden Edging Made Easy Easy Curb Appeal ideas on Pinterest ELY 024 – Front Yard Landscaping Ideas Free Stuff at ELY.how/free! Today's Plant - Goldenrod Ask a question Need Help? Consult with Ben! How to spruce up your front entry Curb [...]
9/19/2018 • 57 minutes, 9 seconds
ELY 032 – Living a Meaningful Life
Today, we refocus on what is really important and remember to live with purpose. Show Notes Remembering Angie - my grandmotherWe don’t control how much time we have. We can control what we do with that precious time.What is your legacy?Today’s links: ely.how/episode32ELY 030 – Living with purpose and passionSubscribe to the showiTunes and [...]
9/12/2018 • 12 minutes, 5 seconds
ELY 031 – Front Yard Vegetables
Front Yard Gardening that your neighbors will love - Show Notes Today, we talk about Front Yard Vegetable Gardening. Do you live in an HOA where you're not allowed to have a vegetable garden? Perhaps you have pets that would trample your vegetables in the backyard. Or maybe a spouse that doesn't want a [...]
9/5/2018 • 36 minutes, 13 seconds
ELY 030 – Living a purpose driven life
Living with a purpose driven life - Show Notes Today, we talk about living with passion and having a purpose driven life Yes, I was bummed yesterday Case of Mondays Tendency to complexity My beliefs What we do matters having a purpose driven life is important Easy Living Yards purpose: 10% for people and [...]
8/29/2018 • 30 minutes, 22 seconds
ELY 029 – Best Landscape Trees 2018 Edition
Best Landscape Trees - Show Notes Today, we talk about my favorite landscape trees across the US Let's jump right in! Red Maple – Acer rubrum 40-60’ tall, 30-50’ wide Zones 3-9 Full sun to part shade Medium to wet soils Majestic form Bright fall color Red Orange Yellow Early spring flower buds [...]
8/22/2018 • 53 minutes, 3 seconds
ELY 028 – Garden Edging made Easy
Lawn Edging and Garden Edging Ideas - Show Notes Today, we talk about lawn edging and garden edging Ideas Benefits of garden edging Reduces maintenance Weeding Trimming Design Provides clean lines Clear borders benefit many designs Metal edging Benefits Durable Low visibility Cautions Steel can rust – may be appealing if thick steel Steel [...]
8/15/2018 • 28 minutes, 22 seconds
ELY 027 – Backyard Ideas for Kids
Show Notes Today's episode we chat about what makes the backyard fun for kids! What does a kid love about the backyard? Creating rooms Ambience Escape Imagination Backyard fun: Creating space your kids want A space to call their own Outdoor playhouse Makes a fun space for imagination Able to get dirty Able [...]
8/8/2018 • 51 minutes, 27 seconds
ELY 026 – Low Maintenance Landscaping Ideas
Show Notes: Low Maintenance Landscaping Ideas Take action in your yard with these low maintenance landscaping ideas! If you want easy landscaping and more time, use these simple landscaping ideas to transform your yard and life! Yes, it really makes a difference! Low maintenance landscaping can help you save time and enjoy more [...]
8/1/2018 • 28 minutes, 38 seconds
ELY 025 – Backyard Landscaping Ideas
Show Notes: Backyard Landscaping Ideas Today, learn how to create easy landscaping in your backyard with these backyard landscaping ideas! Create a backyard with fun for everyone - playspaces, relaxation, and entertainment! These easy landscaping ideas offer low maintenance landscaping that improve your lifestyle by saving time and increasing enjoyment in your yard! [...]
7/25/2018 • 37 minutes, 24 seconds
ELY 024 – Front Yard Landscaping Ideas
Show Notes: Easy Front Yard Landscaping Ideas Today, you find easy front yard landscaping ideas to make your front yard pop! Learn the primary focus areas that make the greatest impact on your front yard. Goal with most front yards Curb Appeal Welcoming Easy Property edge Mailbox Driveway Frame property edge Visual interest [...]
7/18/2018 • 41 minutes, 9 seconds
ELY 023 – Easy Plants for Low Maintenance Landscaping
Find easy plants for easy landscaping Today, you'll learn how to find the best plants for low maintenance landscaping. If you're looking to have easy landscaping in your yard, these tips will help you find the right low maintenance plants for your yard. Show Notes: Low Maintenance Landscaping Plants These tools find the right [...]
7/11/2018 • 41 minutes, 56 seconds
ELY 022-I got busted! Property maintenance violations and what to do
Show Notes Today, you get to learn about how I got BUSTED! Getting a property maintenance violation can be frustrating when you are trying to convert to low maintenance landscaping. Here's what to do. Our story Violations can be emotional and stressful Frustrating Infuriating Embarrassing Difficult Want to retaliate How to deal with [...]
7/4/2018 • 25 minutes, 38 seconds
ELY 021-Don’t Get Busted! HOAs and Municipal Zoning Regulations
Show Notes Today, we talk about how to live in an HOA or municipal zoning area with regulations... without getting busted! We want to be able to enjoy our low maintenance landscaping without having to work on it all of the time. Here's how you can have an easy landscape and enjoy it [...]
6/27/2018 • 31 minutes, 2 seconds
ELY 020 – Surprise Episode!
Show Notes Today, Big change! Easylivingyards.com This is my Why I am driven by two things living a better life with my family, making tomorrow better than today Because of my why, I want to help you and your family live a better life About life Improving how you live Live with passion [...]
6/20/2018 • 14 minutes, 58 seconds
AE019 – Easy Plants – Annuals or Perennials?
Show Notes Today, we talk about easy plants for your yard. What are the best types of plants? I cover the topic of annual plants and perennial plants and why these categories are important for you when you want a low maintenance landscape. Show Notes: Today’s topic: what are annuals and perennials and [...]
6/14/2018 • 29 minutes, 37 seconds
AE 018 – How to save time mowing your lawn
Show Notes Today, we talk about how to save time mowing the lawn. From how often should you mow your lawn to how to save time mowing. Mowing time saving hacks Mowing - #1 time drain for maintenance Inflexible Takes away from what’s important Weather dependent #1 issue with neighbors Main piece to [...]
6/6/2018 • 37 minutes, 42 seconds
AE 017-Native plants and exotic plants
Show Notes Check out my high tech mobile recording studio! Hear me talk about it on the show today. Today, I weigh the pros and cons of native plants and exotic plants for your landscape and gardens. Does all this even matter for your landscape? Listen in to figure out where you [...]
5/30/2018 • 46 minutes, 56 seconds
AE 016-When to hire a Landscape Designer
Show Notes Today, we discuss when it is a good time to hire a landscape designer for your yard and garden, and when a project is manageable to do it yourself. Whether you are considering changes to lawn or garden, this episode is worth considering if you have a busy lifestyle and your [...]
5/23/2018 • 41 minutes
AE 015-Neighbors and your yard
Show Notes Today, we discuss how have the best relationship with neighbors and also how to enjoy your landscape. How you don't have to toil in your lawn and garden to keep up with the Joneses and still have a good relationship. Life with neighbors How to work with your neighbors, and live [...]
5/16/2018 • 37 minutes, 40 seconds
AE 014-Compost and why it’s Awesome
Show Notes Today, we cover why compost is awesome for your lawn and garden! Why compost is awesome One of the safest and best fertility boosters of all time General elixir for soil and plant health Age-old fertility booster Composted manure What is it Degraded & digested organic matter Bacterial & fungal digestion [...]
5/9/2018 • 37 minutes, 8 seconds
AE 013-Healthy Low Maintenance Lawn Care
Show Notes In this episode, we talk about how to have a healthy lawn and a low maintenance lawn. Is it possible to have a low maintenance lawn that your neighbors envy? Topics: Grass: Love/hate relationship Aesthetics Work Maintenance Mowing/growth Feeding General grass health Weeds Health Chemical residues/exposure Exhaust Epa: 17 million gallons of [...]
5/2/2018 • 47 minutes, 15 seconds
AE 012-Dealing with Weed Problems
Show Notes In this episode, we discuss what to do with weeds. Why are weeds there? What can you do about weeds in your yard? Are there healthy ways to remove weeds? Topics: What is a weed? Wrong plant, wrong place Repairing the soil Taking advantage of unused resources Space, nutrients, sunlight, etc [...]
4/25/2018 • 51 minutes, 53 seconds
AE 011-Soil and why it matters
Show Notes Topics: Simple principle Good organic matter Support microbes Good moisture Good air What is soil Physical Texture Granular size of soil Sand Large particle sizes High permeability Benefits Well drained Risks High nutrient loss Erosion prone Drought prone Silt Medium particle sizes Permeable Benefits Generally higher nutrient availability Well drained Risks [...]
4/18/2018 • 52 minutes, 30 seconds
AE 010-How to start a new garden bed
Show Notes In this episode, we talk about how to start a garden bed project. What you need to do before planting! Topics: Overview Site selection Planning Preparation Planting Site selection Usually determined by architecture If multiple spaces possible Consider environmental features Functional features Access Appeal Value - make it worth it Planning [...]
4/11/2018 • 49 minutes, 29 seconds
AE 009-The right plants for your yard
Show Notes In this episode, we discuss how to find the right plants for your space. Are you overwhelmed with what to plant in your yard? Does the nursery always seem to let you down? Topics: Reason Right plant = less work Happier Fewer problems Better growth Better foliage & blooms Know your [...]
4/4/2018 • 47 minutes, 19 seconds
AE 008 – Disease problems and what to do
Show Notes In this episode we talk about how to deal with disease problems in your landscape. Are the plants in your yard healthy? Do your garden plants need help? Is your lawn diseased? Topics: Types of plant disease Mold, bacteria, protozoa, insect, etc. Diseases and pests are indicators of deeper issues Moles [...]
3/28/2018 • 40 minutes, 9 seconds
AE 007-Healthy Landscape, Healthy Family
Healthy Landscaping - Show Notes In this episode, we talk about what makes a healthy landscape. Do you want your landscape to be safe for you, your family, your pets, and your community? Use these ecological landscaping tips to create a healthy landscape for your family! Topics: My view Natural is better and [...]
3/21/2018 • 51 minutes, 54 seconds
Eco Landscaping-How to start a garden-AE 006
Show Notes In this episode we talk about what you need to do before starting a project. How to plan yard projects properly so you work less later! Topics: Design Principles Think big picture How project fits into greater landscape Better to plan first than to plant first Easier to correct planning mistakes [...]
3/14/2018 • 52 minutes, 50 seconds
AE 005-Design Basics for an attractive yard
Show Notes In this episode, we talk the basics of attractive design. Use these design basics to increase your curb appeal and make your yard pop! Topics: Visual Aesthetics Ensures pleasant experience Desirable place Sense of place, being Unity – cohesive design plan – not random use of elements Symmetry, asymmetry, form repetition [...]
3/11/2018 • 39 minutes, 20 seconds
AE 004-Time Saving Hacks for your Yard
Show Notes Today, we discuss how to save time in your yard with tactics and practices. Topics: Design and Establishment Right Plants “Low Maintenance” Plants Proper planting Plan for future Growth – roots, branches Plant gardens that only need work twice a year com/2xgarden Good fertility Dense planting Low maintenance plants Wide range [...]
3/11/2018 • 35 minutes, 15 seconds
AE 003-Low Maintenance Landscapes Part 2
Show Notes In today's episode, we talk further about how to make a low maintenance landscape. Topics: Low resource plants Full coverage Reduce lawn maintenance Low maintenance lawn Good transitions Maintenance plan Links for today's episode: Launch Party! Facebook Twitter How to save 27 hours of work Consult with Ben Paul Tukey Rolling [...]
3/11/2018 • 32 minutes, 29 seconds
AE 002-Low Maintenance Landscapes Part 1
Show Notes In this episode, we talk about what makes a low maintenance landscape. Mindset – Life > Yard Healthy plants Healthy Soil Right plant right place Natives, adapted Perennials Grouped plantings vs isolated Links for today's episode: Launch Partay! Facebook Twitter How to save 27 hours of work Consult with Ben Paul [...]
3/11/2018 • 31 minutes, 34 seconds
AE 001-The Right Mindset for your Yard and Life
Show Notes On today's episode, we discuss how your life is more important than your yard. how to focus on your life first how to adjust your maintenance routine how to reduce yard maintenance why prioritization is important Links for today's episode: Launch Partay! Facebook Twitter How to save 27 hours of work [...]
3/11/2018 • 27 minutes, 31 seconds
AE 000: About the Easy Living Yards Podcast
Episode 000: Sneak Preview! Today, a sneak peek at the Easy Living Yards Podcast and what it will be about. Saving time in your yard How to have an attractive yard without tons of work Increasing the health of your family through your landscape Launch Party!!! Links for today's episode: Launch Partay! Facebook [...]