Home Improvement Blog | L.I. Hardware

How to Paint Any Room Like a Pro

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 17:42:26 GMT

DIY Painting Tips: Get Professional Results at Home

Painting a room might seem like a simple weekend project—but achieving that smooth, professional-looking finish takes the right preparation, tools, and technique. Whether you're refreshing a tired space or completely transforming a room, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to paint like a pro.

1. Start with a Solid Plan

Before you even pick up a brush, take time to plan your project:

Choose the right color (test samples on your wall first!)
Decide on the finish (matte, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss)
Estimate how much paint you'll need based on room size

If you're unsure, visiting a trusted paint store like L.I. Hardware can help you get expert advice and find the perfect products for your project.

2. Gather the Right Tools

Using high-quality tools makes a huge difference in your final result. Here’s what you’ll need:

Angled brushes (for edges and trim)
Rollers and roller covers (match nap thickness to wall texture)
Painter’s tape
Drop cloths
Paint trays
Sandpaper or sanding block

Investing in good tools ensures smoother application and saves time in the long run.

3. Prep Like a Pro (Don’t Skip This!)

Preparation is the secret to a flawless finish:

Clean the walls to remove dust and grease
Patch holes and cracks with spackle
Sand rough areas for a smooth surface
Tape off edges around trim, windows, and ceilings
Protect floors and furniture with drop cloths

Skipping prep work often leads to uneven paint and peeling later on.

4. Prime When Needed

Primer is essential when:

Painting over dark colors
Covering stains
Painting new drywall
Switching paint types (e.g., oil-based to latex)

Primer creates a uniform surface and helps your paint adhere better—giving you a more durable and vibrant finish.

5. Use Proper Painting Techniques

Now for the fun part! Follow these pro techniques:

Cut in first : Use a brush to paint edges and corners
Roll in sections : Work in a “W” or “M” pattern for even coverage
Maintain a wet edge : Avoid lap marks by blending sections while still wet
Apply multiple thin coats : Two coats are better than one thick coat

Take your time—rushing leads to streaks and uneven coverage.

6. Allow Proper Drying Time

Always follow the recommended drying time between coats. Rushing this step can cause peeling or uneven texture. Good ventilation helps speed up drying and reduces paint odors.

7. Clean Up Like a Pro

Once you're done:

Remove painter’s tape carefully before the paint fully dries
Clean brushes and rollers immediately (based on paint type)
Store leftover paint properly for touch-ups

Start Your Transformation Today

Painting a room like a pro doesn’t require years of experience—just the right approach and attention to detail. With proper prep, quality tools, and expert advice from your local paint store, you can achieve stunning results that completely transform your space.

Ready to get started? Visit L.I. Hardware in Bohemia, NY for everything you need—from premium paints to expert guidance—and bring your vision to life with confidence.

Your perfect room is just a brushstroke away!

Tips for Maintaining Your Lawn & Landscaping

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 19:46:28 GMT

Learn How to Properly Care for Your Landscape

A healthy lawn and well-maintained landscaping can significantly enhance the beauty and value of your property. Whether you’re caring for a small residential yard or a larger landscape, regular maintenance helps keep grass, plants, and outdoor spaces looking their best throughout the year. With the right approach, you can create a vibrant outdoor environment that is both attractive and easy to manage.

Here are some practical tips for maintaining your lawn and landscaping to keep your property in great condition!

Mow Your Lawn Regularly

Consistent mowing is one of the most important aspects of lawn care. Keeping your grass at the proper height helps promote healthy growth and prevents weeds from taking over.

Some helpful mowing tips include:

Avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass height at a time
Keep mower blades sharp for clean cuts
Adjust mowing height depending on the season
Change mowing patterns occasionally to prevent soil compaction

Regular mowing keeps your lawn looking neat while encouraging stronger root growth.

Water Your Lawn Properly

Watering plays a critical role in maintaining a lush, green lawn. However, many homeowners either overwater or underwater their lawns.

For best results:

Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation
Provide deep watering rather than frequent shallow watering
Aim for about 1–1.5 inches of water per week, including rainfall
Adjust watering schedules during hot or dry periods

Deep watering helps grass develop stronger roots, making it more resilient during drought conditions.

Fertilize for Healthy Growth

Fertilization provides essential nutrients that help lawns and plants thrive. Applying the right fertilizer at the right time can significantly improve the appearance and health of your landscape.

Key fertilizing tips include:

Choose a fertilizer appropriate for your grass type
Follow recommended application schedules
Avoid over-fertilizing, which can damage grass
Consider soil testing to determine nutrient needs

A balanced fertilization plan encourages thicker grass and healthier plant growth.

Control Weeds Early

Weeds compete with grass and plants for nutrients, sunlight, and water. Addressing weeds early helps prevent them from spreading and damaging your lawn.

Ways to manage weeds include:

Regularly inspecting your lawn for early weed growth
Pulling weeds by hand when possible
Applying pre-emergent weed control in early spring
Using targeted herbicides if necessary

Healthy, dense grass naturally helps reduce weed growth by limiting the space where weeds can grow.

Trim & Prune Landscaping Plants

Maintaining shrubs, trees, and decorative plants is an important part of landscape care. Regular trimming and pruning help plants maintain their shape while promoting healthy growth.

Benefits of pruning include:

Removing dead or damaged branches
Encouraging fuller plant growth
Improving air circulation
Preventing overgrowth around walkways or structures

Pruning schedules vary depending on plant species, so it’s helpful to research the best timing for each plant in your landscape.

Refresh Mulch in Garden Beds

Mulch not only improves the appearance of garden beds but also helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Over time, mulch breaks down and should be replenished.

Advantages of adding mulch include:

Reducing weed growth
Conserving soil moisture
Improving soil health
Enhancing the overall look of landscaping beds

Most landscapes benefit from 2–3 inches of mulch applied around plants and trees.

Maintain Landscape Edges

Defined edges between lawns, walkways, and garden beds give your yard a clean and polished appearance. Edging also helps prevent grass from spreading into planting areas.

You can maintain landscape edges by:

Using edging tools to create sharp borders
Installing landscape edging materials such as stone or metal
Regularly trimming grass along garden beds

Clean edges help your landscaping look professionally maintained.

Monitor for Pests & Lawn Diseases

Insects and lawn diseases can quickly damage grass and plants if left untreated. Regular inspections allow you to identify problems early and take corrective action.

Watch for signs such as:

Discolored patches of grass
Chewed leaves or damaged plants
Unusual spots or mold on turf
Increased insect activity

Early treatment can prevent widespread damage and keep your lawn healthy.

Visit Our Local Lawncare Store to Get Started

Maintaining your lawn and landscaping doesn’t have to be complicated. With consistent care—including mowing, watering, fertilizing, and plant maintenance—you can keep your outdoor space looking vibrant and healthy year-round. Keeping this in mind, the team at L.I. Hardware is standing by to provide support to property owners across Suffolk County, NY and beyond! From inground sprinkler parts to durable gardening tools, we're sure to feature the perfect products at a competitive rate.

Modern Lighting Trends: What’s In and What’s Out This Year

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 20:46:43 GMT

The Hottest Modern Lighting Trends

Lighting does more than just brighten a room; it sets the mood, defines the space, and reflects your personal style. As design evolves, so do the fixtures and technologies we use to illuminate our homes. Keeping up with these changes can transform your space from dated to dazzling. Learn all about the modern lighting trends to embrace and the ones to leave behind this year.

This guide will go over the styles, materials, and smart technologies that are currently shaping interior design. Gain practical insights to help you make informed decisions, whether you're undertaking a full renovation or just looking for a simple update. Learn more about the hottest trends in lighting from L.I. Hardware.

Which Lighting Trends are Currently In?

This year is all about combining form and function with a focus on natural materials, smart technology, and artistic expression. A qualified lighting specialist like L.I. Hardware can help you integrate these exciting new trends into your home seamlessly.

1. Organic and Natural Materials

Design is taking a turn towards the natural world. Lighting fixtures are now incorporating materials that bring a sense of warmth and earthiness into the home. Think rattan, woven grasses, wood, and stone.

Why it's in: These materials add texture and a calming, organic feel to any room. They fit perfectly with popular design styles like Japandi, Scandinavian, and modern farmhouse. A woven pendant over a dining table or a wooden sconce in a hallway can become a beautiful focal point.
How to use it: Look for pendants made of bamboo or rattan for your kitchen island. Consider table lamps with bases made of travertine or marble to add a touch of quiet luxury to your living room.

2. Statement-Making Sculptural Fixtures

Lighting is no longer just a utility; it's a form of art. Large, sculptural chandeliers and pendants are taking center stage in living rooms, dining areas, and even entryways. These pieces are designed to be conversation starters.

Why it's in: A bold, artistic fixture acts as the centerpiece of a room, much like a piece of fine art. It shows personality and creates an immediate visual impact.
How to use it: Choose an oversized, abstract chandelier for a room with high ceilings. In a more minimalist space, a single, uniquely shaped pendant can add a dramatic flair without overwhelming the decor.

3. The Rise of Smart, Human-Centric Lighting

Technology has revolutionized how we control our environment. Human-centric lighting, also known as tunable lighting, allows you to adjust the color temperature and brightness of your lights throughout the day to support your body's natural circadian rhythm.

Why it's in: This trend supports well-being. You can have cool, energizing light in the morning for focus and warm, relaxing light in the evening to help you wind down. It's all easily controlled through a smartphone app or smart home assistant.
How to use it: Install tunable white LED bulbs in key areas like your home office, bedroom, and kitchen. A lighting specialist can advise on the best smart systems and help program scenes for different activities, like "work," "relax," and "entertain."

4. Layering Light for Depth and Functionality

A single overhead light is no longer sufficient. The modern approach involves layering different types of light—ambient, task, and accent—to create a well-lit, functional, and inviting space.

Why it's in: Layering adds dimension and flexibility. It allows you to tailor the lighting to the specific function of a room at any given moment.
How to use it:
Ambient: Start with a central fixture like a chandelier or recessed downlights for general illumination.
Task: Add under-cabinet lighting in the kitchen, a floor lamp next to a reading chair, or desk lamps in an office.
Accent: Use track lighting or wall sconces to highlight artwork, architectural features, or plants.

What’s Out: Trends to Avoid This Year

Just as new trends emerge, others fade away. Here are a few lighting styles that are starting to look tired and what you can replace them with.

1. The Overuse of Edison Bulbs

For a while, the vintage-inspired Edison bulb was everywhere. While its warm glow is appealing, the trend has become oversaturated. These bulbs are also not very energy-efficient and can cast a yellowish, often unflattering, light.

What to do instead: Opt for modern LED bulbs that mimic the warm look of an Edison bulb but offer superior energy efficiency and better light quality. Many now come in interesting shapes and filament styles that provide a similar aesthetic without the drawbacks.

2. Matching Fixtures Everywhere

The era of buying a complete lighting "set"—where the chandelier, pendants, and sconces all match perfectly—is over. This look can feel rigid and lacks the curated, personal touch that defines modern interior design.

What to do instead: Mix and match your lighting fixtures. A skilled lighting specialist will tell you that the key is to create a cohesive look through a common element, such as finish (e.g., all brass), material (e.g., all glass), or style (e.g., all mid-century modern), rather than exact replication. This approach adds character and visual interest.

3. Track Lighting with Bulky Heads

Old-school track lighting systems with large, clunky heads can make a ceiling look cluttered and dated. While the functionality of track lighting is undeniable, the form has evolved significantly.

What to do instead: Choose modern track lighting systems with sleek, minimalist heads or integrated LED strips. Monorail systems offer a more elegant and flexible alternative, allowing you to create custom curves and shapes that complement your space.

4. The "Boob" Light

This is a design term for the ubiquitous flush-mount ceiling light with a central finial that is found in countless hallways and bedrooms. It's generic, uninspired, and does little to enhance a room's decor.

What to do instead: There are many stylish alternatives to this basic fixture. Consider a semi-flush mount drum light for a soft, diffused glow. A small, modern chandelier or a sleek, low-profile LED fixture can instantly elevate the look of your space.

Illuminate Your Home with Confidence

Updating your lighting is one of the most effective ways to refresh your home's interior. By embracing trends like natural materials, sculptural fixtures, and smart technology, you can create a space that is both beautiful and highly functional. Layering different light sources will add depth and versatility to every room.

Don't be afraid to move on from outdated looks like matching sets and Edison bulbs. Small changes can make a big difference. If you feel overwhelmed by the options, consulting a lighting specialist can provide the expert guidance you need to make the right choices for your home and lifestyle. With the right plan, you can create a lighting scheme that you'll love for years to come.

Find the lighting fixtures you need to transform your home or business from L.I. Hardware. Our lighting specialists can help you choose the right lighting for your property and fill you in on the trendiest modern lighting designs. Your home's lighting will never be outdated with help from L.I. Hardware. Stop by our store in Bohemia, NY to speak directly to our lighting specialists or contact us today for all the advice you need on new lighting fixtures.

How to Pick Out the Right Paint for Your Next Project

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 13:03:45 GMT

How to Pick Out the Right Paint for Your Next Project

Paint Types – Choose latex paint for most interior walls and ceilings; it’s water-based, quick-drying, and easy to clean. Opt for oil-based paint for high-traffic areas like trim or cabinets due to its durability, but note it dries slower and needs special cleanup.

Paint Finishes – Matte hides imperfections and suits low-traffic areas; satin and eggshell add slight shine for everyday spaces; semi-gloss and gloss resist moisture and are best for kitchens, bathrooms, and trim.

Color Selection – Warm colors create energy, cool tones add calm, and lighting affects how colors appear. Test samples under natural and artificial light before deciding.

Match Paint to Room’s Purpose – Use durable, stain-resistant paint for kids’ spaces, soft matte tones for cozy rooms, and scrubbable options for high-traffic areas like hallways or entryways.

Visit L.I. Hardware for Quality Advice

No matter what project you’re tackling, L.I. Hardware has you covered. Our team of professionals can help you choose the right paint type, finish, and color, ensuring your next project is a success. Visit L.I. Hardware today to browse our wide selection of quality paints and supplies. We’re here to help you turn every project into a masterpiece!

Choosing the Right Lighting for Your Home

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 13:31:01 GMT

Home Lighting 101: Understanding the Basics

When it comes to designing your home, lighting can make all the difference. The right lighting not only elevates your interior aesthetics but also creates the perfect atmosphere for living, working, or relaxing. Whether you're renovating or starting fresh, understanding how to select the ideal lighting can transform your space. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you make informed decisions, with tips from experienced lighting specialists.

Why Lighting Matters

Lighting does more than illuminate. It sets the tone, enhances functionality, and highlights your home’s design features. Poor lighting can make even the most beautifully designed space feel uninviting, whereas the right lighting creates warmth and dimension.

Tips to Find the Perfect Lighting

1. Assess Each Room’s Purpose

Think about how each space in your home is used. For instance:

Kitchens need bright task lighting for food preparation, while pendant or track lighting over a dining table offers softer illumination.
Living rooms benefit from a combination of ambient lighting and accent lights, such as floor lamps or wall sconces.
Bedrooms need warm, calming lights. Consider bedside lamps for reading and dimmers for flexible control.

2. Consult a Lighting Specialist

Working with a lighting specialist can save you time, energy, and resources. Professionals can help you select fixtures, angles, and placements that enhance your home’s unique layout and design. They can also recommend energy-efficient options, which bring long-term savings.

3. Choose the Right Bulbs

Your bulb choice will impact the lighting's brightness, warmth, and energy efficiency. Common options include:

LED Bulbs (highly energy-efficient and long-lasting)
Incandescent Bulbs (warm and classic but less efficient)
Fluorescent Bulbs (cost-effective, but some prefer a warmer tone)

Always check the bulb's lumens (brightness level) and color temperature (measured in Kelvin) before purchasing. For a cozy look, opt for warm white; for task areas, go for cool or daylight options.

4. Layer Your Lighting

Layering involves combining ambient, task, and accent lighting to achieve a balanced, flexible setup. For example, use recessed lights as ambient lighting in your living room, a table lamp for reading, and wall sconces to highlight artwork.

5. Explore Dimmers for Flexibility

Installing dimmer switches allows you to adjust the brightness and create various moods in the same room. They're perfect for spaces like dining rooms or bedrooms where lighting needs may vary throughout the day.

6. Consider Energy Efficiency

Modern homes prioritize sustainability. Look for energy-efficient fixtures and bulbs to lower your electric bills and reduce environmental impact. LEDs, in particular, are a popular choice for their energy savings and longevity.

Speak to Our Lighting Specialists Today to Elevate Your Home

Lighting is an investment that pays off in both functionality and aesthetics. Whether you're transforming your space entirely or updating a single room, take the time to consider your options carefully. And remember, consulting with a lighting specialist from L.I. Hardware can ensure you strike the right balance between form and function.

Want to learn more or browse premium lighting solutions? Visit our local electrical supply store in Bohemia, NY to see our selection for yourself or to consult a lighting expert to bring your vision to life. With the right fixtures and guidance, your home will shine brighter than ever!

Tips for Home Holiday Prep

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 14:45:56 GMT

Tips to Freshen Up Your Home for the Festive Season

If you’re planning to host friends and family in your home during the holidays, then there’s still time to make a few updates. While a complete renovation may not be possible, there are several simple spruce-ups that you can tackle in the coming weeks.

First and foremost, concentrate your efforts on the room your guests are likely to interact with, such as the bathrooms and guest bedrooms. If you’re only hosting dinner, consider where visitors are likely to congregate before, during, and after the meal. While everyone’s home and entertaining style is different, this may include the kitchen, living room, and formal dining area. Once you’ve determined what those main entertainment zones are, you can use the following tips to prepare your home for the holidays.

Wrap Up Any Unfinished Projects

Before the holidays arrive, you will want to finish up any unfinished projects. For instance, if you’re in the middle of redesigning your living room or remodeling your bathroom, think of ways to expedite the process. This will ensure that your guests can see the final results rather than a rough draft. While everyone can deal with bouts of procrastination, upcoming holidays may be just the motivation you need to tackle some lingering to-dos. If you’ve been wanting to wallpaper your bathroom or guest bedroom, it’s time to just go for it. Find a peel-and-stick wallpaper to ensure that it’s mess-free and will only take a day to finish up.

Rethink Your Entryway

Your entryway is one of the first things your guests will see, meaning it’s key to making a good first impression. It’s important to have a designated area for guests to take off their shoes, hang up jackets, and set down purses. A great way to spruce up the space is by adding a small rug, boot tray, bench, and storage baskets to your entry area. For coats, mount hooks along the wall if you have the space. If not, make some space in a hall closet. Once you’ve got the basics down, then it’s time to incorporate seasonal décor or fresh flowers to add a festive touch.

Time to Declutter

One of the tried-and-true ways to instantly make your home look more polished is by cleaning up excess clutter. It also helps to create a blank canvas so your seasonal décor can shine. If you’ve been meaning to get organized or declutter, then now is the time. Throw out, recycle, or donate any unwanted items. Then, put everything else in its rightful home. If you’re still struggling to find space for things, invest in a new organizing solution.

Revive Your Walls

You may not realize it, but a coat of paint is an affordable and impactful way to transform your home for the holidays. It’ll restore dull walls and give the space a brighter and cleaner look. For those who don’t have time to break out the brushes, then take the time to clean your walls to ensure they’re free of scuffs, stains, and dirt.

Tackle Problem Areas

While you may aim for your space to look pristine, nobody has a perfect home. There are problem areas in everyone’s home. For instance, it may be a tattered loveseat, a wobbly chair, or a too-small area rug. When you’re considering quick and easy solutions, it’s important to think about what makes you most unhappy with the space. Then, you can prioritize getting it repaired or replaced.

Update Lighting Inside & Outside

Lighting can have a major impact on how your home looks and feels. If you’re struggling to find ways to prepare your home for the holidays, start with lighting. Installing dimmer switches in the common area is a great way to not only update the space but also set the mood for entertaining guests. For exterior areas, adding a few outdoor sconces or lanterns will ensure that your home is more inviting. If you’re short on time, replacing any burnt-out or too-dim bulbs will give the space a brighter look.

Freshen Up the Guest Room

If your friends or family are staying over, then it’s important to spruce up the guest bedroom. Hang new curtains, add a shag area rug, or install a reading light to make the space feel like a “home away from home” for your guests. If you’re able to, upgrade pillows or a mattress to ensure your guests get a restful night’s sleep.

Reach Out to Our Local Hardware Store to Get Started

When you’re preparing your home for the holidays, you may need some supplies to get the job done right. Luckily, L.I. Hardware is here to help. Our local hardware store is proud to serve homeowners throughout Bohemia, Suffolk County, NY and the surrounding communities. Whether you’re in need of paint, lighting, or plumbing equipment, we’ve got you covered. If you’re interested in learning more, contact us or visit our local hardware store to see our selection for yourself!

Tools for Finished Basements

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 14:39:05 GMT

Tools You Need to Refinish Your Basement

In recent years, many of us have become DIYers. We are constantly investing in our homes and putting in some serious time to have them perfected. That is because we are demanding more from our homes and want to be as comfortable as possible in them. A common project that many DIYers are embarking on is finishing their basements. This is a heavy-hitter project that is going to require a lot of work. You will also need many tools to get the job done including:

Shop Vac
Drill
Nail Gun
Chisel
Level
Framing Hammer
Chalk Line

These tools will make the process much easier for you. Each tool has a specific purpose and will help you with everything from nailing drywall to laying tile to repairing concrete. You may need more than these tools to do exactly what you need to do. You can always consult your local hardware store for help in determining what tools you will need for the project.

You should be able to find what you need to begin a finished basement project at a home improvement store like L.I. Hardware. We have a wide selection of tools and accessories available to help you complete projects like finished basements. At our store, you can find electrical supply, plumbing equipment, and the tools you need for a DIY basement project. We also offer equipment for rent to help with more extensive work. We're a trusted choice for rental equipment services in Bohemia, NY and Suffolk County, NY.

Visit Our Hardware Store Today!

At L.I. Hardware, we provide quality tools and equipment to the Bohemia, NY area. When you come to our hardware store, you can find everything you need for any DIY project you are embarking on. It does not matter if you need a hammer, nail gun, electrical supplies , door handles, paint , or anything else, we have the supplies you need. Doing some yard work? We also have landscaping supplies such as mulch, potting soil, lawnmowers, fertilizer, and in-ground sprinkler parts . Visit our local hardware store today for all your tool and equipment needs!

Spice Up Your Summer with These Home Improvement Projects

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 18:55:55 GMT

Add Summer Flair to Your Suffolk County, NY Home

Summertime in Suffolk County means experiencing all the outdoors can offer! If you can’t spend too much time traveling or venturing the outdoors, make your home feel like a vacation getaway! The Bohemia, NY region is a terrific place to live. Why not make your home feel like a vacation retreat by trying out some easy home improvement projects?

How do you get started? Just visit your local electrical supply store, hardware store, or home improvement store—for example, L.I. Hardware!

It doesn’t take much to add a little summer spice to your home. Little changes go a long way and simply browsing the electrical supply and gardeners supply aisles at home improvement stores can help spark creativity. If you’re not one to easily think of creative home improvement ideas, there are a few simple ideas that could give you that push you need.

Try These Simple Home Improvement Projects

Add Unique Lighting. From dangling Edison bulbs on your patio to trying out the dimmers you can control from your smartphone, lighting can truly bring new life into a space. Connect with an electrical supply professional or a lighting specialist at your local hardware store! If you have a vision, experienced workers are there to help.

Step Up Lawncare. Lawncare and landscaping doesn’t have to be a stressful activity! Adding fresh soil, shrubs, and flowers to your landscape can be a great way to freshen the look of your home this summer. If that’s too much, neaten up your landscape and go from there!

Incorporate Color. Suffolk County, NY is a colorful place to live! So, why not join the fun by adding splashes of color to your home this summer? You can do this easily by painting your front door, adding some bright colored flowers, or chatting with your local paint store for inspiration!

Contact Our Home Improvement Team Today!

The home improvement professionals at L.I. Hardware are ready to help you with all your summer lawncare, electrical, paint, and plumbing needs. Don’t hesitate to ask a specialist for guidance next time you visit your local Suffolk County, NY hardware store!

How to Start a Garden at Home | L.I. Hardware | Bohemia & Suffolk County, NY

Thu, 13 May 2021 19:25:53 GMT

Tips from Our Gardener's Supply Store to Help Begin Your Journey

Are you interested in starting a garden at your home? From delicious fruit to healthy, leafy veggies, eye-catching shrubs, and fragrant flowers, the options are endless. With one visit to a garden and lawncare store, you can soon be eating all the delicious foods that you plant and taking advantage of the pretty floral views on your property. If you are new to gardening, it's important to do your research and have the right tools. Anyone can easily get started after just a visit or two to a gardener's supply store, but it pays to do some research first. After learning some of the basics, you'll be able to turn your backyard into a thriving plant paradise. This hobby can provide a lot of satisfaction and enjoyment to gardeners of any age. However, to be successful, there are some things you'll need to know and consider before creating your first planting bed.

Dig into your new gardening adventure by following the step below.

Consider What to Plant

First, it's important to think about what you want to grow. Flowers? Vegetables? Herbs? Each option will make a stunning garden, but they will have different maintenance requirements. Think about what you like to eat and consider planting those things. Since you are just starting, you might want to start small until you get more advanced in this hobby.

Pick the Best Spot for Your Garden

Most things you plant will need a good amount of sun each day. Find a spot on your property that will give your plants the amount of sunlight they need. Most plants will come with directions and whether they need full or partial sun to thrive. Try to find a flat portion of your property so you don't have to deal with a sloping garden.

Acquire Gardening Tools

Having the right tools will make your new hobby easier. Invest in a durable shovel and gardening gloves. Other tools that may help with your hobby include a potting soil scoop, a Hori-Hori knife, and hand pruners.

Test Your Soil

Find out where you can send samples of your soil to your county. These tests will let you know your pH levels and if your soil is lacking nutrients that your plants will need to grow. If your soil is lacking nutrients, you can add organic matter to the soil and till up the bed. Earthworms also help mix the soil. Also, test for any toxins in the soil. If there are toxins, consider a wooden raised garden instead of one that is on the ground.

Clear the Ground

Rope off the area you want to use for your garden. Take a step back and make sure this is where you want it and the size you want. Then, start removing the weeds and sod from the area.

Prepare Your Planting Beds

Use a rototiller or dig by hand to mix the soil. The soil will loosen which helps roots grow easily instead of trying to grow through hard, compacted dirt. This also allows plants to get the water and nutrients they need.

Pick Your Plants

Choose plants that are adequate for your climate and the amount of sunlight the areas receive. Consider different annuals, perennials, vegetables, and herbs.

Start Planting

Some plants are more tolerant to cold weather, so you can plant them whenever. Other plants thrive on warmer weather, so it's important to plant them after frost dangers have passed. Read the seed packets for the best information on when to plant, the depth, and the spacing of the plants. Some gardeners plant their seeds indoors before frost threats and then move the seedlings into the soil at the right time.

Water at the Right Time

You don't want seedlings to dry out, so it is important to water them daily. As the plant gets larger, you can slow down on watering them. How often you water your plants depends on the soil, temperature, and rainfall. To determine if you should water your plants, feel 3-4 inches below the surface. If it is dry, you should water the plants. Water them slowly so the water has the opportunity to soak in and not runoff. Water in the early morning to minimize evaporation.

Protect with Mulch

Mulch helps keeps weeds out and moisture in. Place a couple of inches of mulch in your gardens. This will reduce how often you need to water and prevent the sun from drying out the soil. It also prevents weeds that could take over your plants.

Maintain Your Garden

As your garden grows, it is important to water the plants before they wilt, pull weeds as you see them, remove dead vegetation, support tall plants with a trellis, and harvest your vegetables when they are ready.

Rely On Our Local Hardware Store

If you are thinking about starting a garden at home in the Bohemia and Suffolk County, NY areas, stop into L.I. Hardware. As your local hardware and lawn care store, we have the knowledge, experience, and equipment you'll need to start gardening like a pro. Instead of visiting big box home improvement stores, stop in and talk to the employees in our gardening section today. We can help give you the best advice on what plants you should plant, when the best time to grown them, and more. Not only that, but we offer special equipment such as inground sprinklers parts that will cut down on hose for you. Set up the sprinkler to water your garden on a set schedule and get the best results. If you need specialty equipment, we offer rental equipment services to help get your garden up and running as quickly and easily as possible.

Let us help you get started on your exciting and healthy new hobby this summer! Call or stop in today!