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Fall is one of the best times to be in your garden. The days are bright and sunny, but it’s cooler and there’s still plenty of time to enjoy being outdoors. It’s also the time to plant garlic, which is one of the easiest crops ever to grow. You plant the cloves in fall, then wait for a harvest next summer. Trust me: Anyone can do this!Garlic (Allium sativum) has been cultivated for more than 5,000 years, and it’s easy to see why. It adds zing to any dish, and the taste of fresh garlic is so much more pungent and crisp than the cloves that have been sitting around in the grocery store forever. I also plant garlic every year because it works as a repellent. I won’t have to worry about battling rodents like I do with my tulips or squash bugs, like I do with my summer squash. Plus, it’s one of the easiest crops that anyone can grow — here’s how I grow garlic every fall. Related StoriesTypes of Garlic?First thing to know is, there are two main types of garlic: Softneck, which has a flexible stem that can be braided for longer storage. This type is the best for southern growers. Hardneck, which has a stiff stem, or scape, which can also be eaten. This type grows well in cold climates. The scape is harvested in the late spring, which encourages the plant to put its energy into developing a larger bulb. There are many different varieties, but a few favorites include:Softneck:Inchelium Red grows in both warm and cold climates and is the best variety for braiding; it’s mild-flavored. Italian Early grows best in cold and western climates and also can be braided; it’s considered the garlic that stores the longest.Hardneck:Chesnock Red is cold-hardy and is prized for its large cloves, which have a smooth texture when roasted.Music grows well in cold climates and has jumbo cloves with a robust flavor.When to Plant GarlicGarlic can be planted anytime from mid-fall until the ground freezes. That ranges from mid-October to December.Vasil Dimitrov//Getty ImagesHow to Plant GarlicChoose a spot in full sun, which is considered 6 or more hours of direct sunlight. Garlic doesn’t like wet feet, so make sure to plant in an area of your garden which is well-draining. The location also should be somewhere that won’t be disturbed because garlic takes about 8 months to mature before you can harvest it. Dig a hole about 4 to 6 inches deep, going shallower for warm climates, deeper for cold climates. When you’re ready to plant, break apart the whole bulb, separating each clove. Leave the papery sheath intact on each individual clove (but don’t worry if some of it comes off). Place the clove pointy end up in the hole, cover with soil, and tamp down gently. Allow about 6 inches between cloves. Water well. Don’t worry if the bulbs sprout after planting; it won’t affect your harvest. Now wait for spring! In the spring, fertilize with a balanced fertilizer when you first see green shoots. You also should water occasionally if it’s extremely dry. Make sure to keep the garlic bed weeded so it’s not competing with weeds for nutrients and moisture. ZenShui/Sigrid Olsson//Getty ImagesCan I Plant Grocery-Store Garlic?Most grocery store garlic has been treated to inhibit sprouting. You can try planting it, but I think it’s usually a waste of time and garden space. Instead, order “seed stock” from reputable growers such as Johnny’s’ Selected Seeds or Keene Garlic. These vendors also will ship when garlic is ready to be planted in your region, which makes it easier on you because you don’t have to store it. Getty ImagesWhen to Harvest GarlicGarlic is ready to harvest in late spring to early summer, depending on where you live and the type you planted. With hardneck varieties, you’ll see the stems or scapes emerge from the top of the plant a few weeks before harvest time. Cut them off as they begin to curl under; don’t neglect this step because removing the scape allows the plant to push its energy into creating a larger bulb. You can dice and sauté the scapes, which have a mild garlic flavor, for any dish that calls for garlic or scallions.Aliyev Alexei Sergeevich//Getty ImagesFor both hardneck and softneck varieties, it’s time to harvest when about half the foliage has turned yellowish and toppled over. Use a spade or garden fork to lift around and up under the bulb; shake off the dirt and let the bulbs cure out of direct sunlight for a couple of weeks, which helps improve storage life. When dry, cut the leaves off at the neck area, leaving a few inches of stem intact. Or you can weave the stems of softneck garlic into a braid.How to Store GarlicGarlic should be stored in a cool, dark place –preferably in a jar or container that allows air circulation so the heads don’t rot. Braided garlic can be hung in a cool, dark location. Both methods will allow garlic to last for about 4 to 6 months, depending on the type and storage conditions. However, use any bulbs you damaged accidentally when lifting them from your garden first because they will spoil faster. Arricca Elin SanSone is a writer, editor, and content creator who specializes in lifestyle and gardening. With a background in health reporting, she applies these same research skills when writing about the science of growing things. She trials new plants in her expansive garden, and her houseplant collection consists of 60+ varieties. Arricca has written thousands of articles for publications such as Country Living, House Beautiful, Good Housekeeping, Prevention, VERANDA, Southern Living, and more. She’s happiest when digging in the dirt, baking, or spending time with the people and dogs she loves. More
The house purse is a viral home organization hack that involves storing household essentials in a tote bag or caddy.House purses are carried from room to room and organize daily items—think beauty products, crafting supplies, and tech accessories. Content creators on TikTok are showing off what’s inside their house purses.Picture this: You’re sitting on the couch and realize you forgot your lip balm, scrunchie, or water bottle in the other room—or your phone hits low power mode and your charger is upstairs. Add another layer of frustration when you tend to misplace these essentials and have to spend time every day searching the house. The solution? A purse that doesn’t leave the house. A house purse—often a caddy or fabric tote with many compartments—is a genius way to organize your most-loved essentials and keep them within reach. The viral organization hack is meant to avoid constant traveling from room to room, saving time and energy. The idea is, carry your house purse wherever you go, and you’ll always have what you need. Since a house purse can be completely customized, content creators are showing off what they keep inside. Many store personal items, like books, lip balms, and lotions, but you’ll also spot cleaning products, tech (think chargers or small devices), and crafting supplies. Amélie (@aayalie on TikTok) lets her house purse double as a journaling tote. Regardless of how they use it, TikTok users find a house purse makes life easier and helps keep their house organized. “I try not to let my stuff spread everywhere around the house,” says Amélie. “With my ADHD and two young kids, it can get overwhelming quick. This house purse is really the perfect tool for me.””I work at home, and was constantly going from room to room to hunt for things—my reading glasses, inhaler, hair scrunchie, phone battery block, nail file, etc.” says Brenda Ster, content creator behind @suitebrenda. “It’s something so silly, but has actually saved me so much time.” Shop House PursesBAGSMART Puffy Tote BagNow 18% OffCanvas Tote BagNow 34% OffFabric CaddyCaddy Organizer Now 22% OffA house purse doesn’t typically look like your average going-out bag—it’s more of a tote. Some people even opt for a plastic shower caddy, because it’s easy to carry around and the sections help streamline essentials. “Having a house purse keeps me from running around the house for everything I need,” adds Sabrina Perkins, content creator behind @seriouslynaturalsabrina, who opted for a large tote with many compartments. She even stores her water bottle and coffee cup inside. More Organizing AdviceAlyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries. More
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Beautiful Barrymore Teddy Accent Chair by Drew BarrymoreNow 14% OffComfy seating is a requisite for the chilly season, a welcoming respite as you thumb through a new book, watch a movie or connect with friends and family. Beautiful by Drew has dreamed up a gorgeous high-end accent chair complete with an oversize seat, durable corduroy and a sturdy wood frame. Crystal Art Gallery Gold Traditional Arch Decor MirrorAs any interior designer will tell you, one of the best ways to make a space feel bigger and brighter is to add a mirror — and it can make an especially huge difference on those dark, chilly days. This vintage-inspired arched option adds a refined touch to a fireplace mantel, dresser or vanity. Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowBetter Homes & Gardens 3-Wick Pumpkin Jar CandleAutumn is all about embracing warm and spicy scents. Housed in a pumpkin-shaped vessel, this candle brings those sensory vibes into your home while also serving as a piece of seasonal decor. The Pioneer Woman Agatha 12-Piece Stoneware Dinnerware SetSetting the table for a special family or friendly gathering is one of autumn’s annual rituals. Dress up your delicious spread with this 12-piece stoneware set featuring a vintage floral motif; it includes four dinner plates, salad plates and bowls. Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowCreative Co-Op Ridged Mango Wood Footed BowlInfuse an earthy, rustic effect with this bowl, which is rich in both texture and color. Fill it with mini pumpkins for seasonal flair and use it as an accent on the dining table, a decorative detail in your entryway or perched on a bookshelf. Better Homes & Gardens Faux Fur Ultra Soft Luxury Oversize Throw Blanket Whether you’re nestled in front of a blazing fire outdoors or cozied up inside, a throw blanket instantly levels up the cozy factor. This collection comes in various autumnal shades — choose your favorite, or layer a pair.Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowHome Decor Collection White Rose Floral Print by Antoine MonnoyerFor a nod to spooky season that doesn’t feel too Halloween-like, incorporate this moody floral print on the mantel or a bookshelf. Better Homes & Gardens Bryant Solid Wood Extendable Dining TableThe best time to upgrade your kitchen table? Right before all those holiday gatherings. Available in a honey or walnut finish, this modern dining table is made from solid wood and has a removable 16-inch leaf that extends for larger events.Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowWalker Edison Modern Solid Wood Curved Dining Chair with Bouclé, Set of 2 Comfort matters, especially when you’re sitting down for a meal you spent serious time preparing. These high-quality dining chairs from Walker Edison have a clean, Scandi-inspired silhouette, plush cushions and soft bouclé fabric.My Texas House Charlotte 3-Piece Trellis Velvet Quilt SetNow 28% OffOutfitting the guest room with new bedding will help ensure holiday visitors feel welcome. Made from an ultra-soft Dutch velvet fabric, this set includes a comforter and two pillow shams. Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowBetter Homes & Gardens Electric Outdoor Patio HeaterExtend porch season through the fall with an electric heater. This durable option resembles a stylish house lamp and offers three convenient heat settings. Plus, it leaves plenty of room to decorate your outdoor space with festive touches like pumpkins and mums. Home Decor Collection 3-Arm Black Metal Taper Candle HolderWhether for a Halloween party, Thanksgiving dinner tablescape or to simply add a festive feel to your living area, this gothic candle holder will be put to good use.Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowBeautiful by Drew Barrymore 9-by-13-Inch Covered Stoneware Baking Dish Whatever you’re baking up this season, it’s bound to be delicious. Make it especially photo-worthy, too, with a covered stoneware baking dish that goes straight from the oven to the dining table. Home Decor Collection Velvet Bow Oblong Decorative Pillow Swapping out decorative pillows can go a long way toward making your living room feel seasonally appropriate. Opt for a velvet set in a deep hue; this one also features bows along the edges for a whimsical touch.Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowMainstays 42-Inch Black Finish Modern Steel Fire PitSnuggling up around a blazing fire allows you to keep your outdoor entertaining area in use a little longer. This steel fire pit adds sophistication and converts into a regular coffee table when not in use. Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More
1Summer toiletriesPhoto by Ira Heuvelman-Dobrolyubova//Getty ImagesDon’t blindly pack up summer toiletries before checking expiration dates. “Start with the things that will not make it another season, like sunscreen, bug spray, or aloe gel,” says Laura Ellis, founder of Organized by Ellis. “Toss the sandy, half-used tubes that have seen better days.” 2Excess school suppilesCarol Yepes//Getty ImagesAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below3Summer clothing and swim suitsjaouad.K//Getty ImagesDonate or toss any summer clothing or swimsuits that didn’t get worn this summer. Keep in mind that kids are likely to outgrow their summer clothes by next year, so donate anything that was unworn or fit snugly. “They grow so fast,” says Gehman.RELATED: Here’s Where to Donate Clothes to Give Them a Second Life4Sports gearNathan Bilow//Getty ImagesAfter a long summer of playing outdoors, it’s a great time to organize the shed filled with sports gear. “Sporting equipment—bikes, helmets, swim goggles, cleats—should be inspected, repaired, or replaced before the fall season,” says Dr. Regina Lark, founder of A Clear Path.Sports equipment in good condition can be donated to local community centers, youth programs, or local thrift stores.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below5Summer reads© eleonora galli//Getty ImagesTake a pass through your summer books—whether you read them or not. “Now that books are a click away, they tend to pile up before we can read them,” says Maeve Richmond, founder of Maeve’s Method. “Send the ones you don’t plan to read soon (or ever!) packing—off to a friend, colleague, or book donation organization.”Books can be donated to charities, your local library (just call first to confirm!), or other community organizations.6Food storage containersOs Tartarouchos//Getty Images’Tis the season of packed lunches, so it’s a great time to re-evaluate your collection of food storage containers. “Review what you own, then hang onto the ones you’ll realistically use during the week—like for lunch or leftovers—and release the rest,” says Richmond, who also suggests considering glass containers. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below7Too many beach towels mpalis//Getty Images”Summer has a way of filling our homes with extras,” says Lark. “Souvenir cups, freebie water bottles, promotional tote bags, and beach towels multiply quickly—pare them down.” Toss any beach towels or summer gear that is damaged and donate any extras. Keep in mind: Animal shelters typically accept used beach towels as bedding. 8Last year’s schoolworkCarol Yepes//Getty ImagesFor families with kids, schoolwork piles up quick. Before you get too overwhelmed by the new school year, “edit or archive children’s art and memorable schoolwork from last year,” says Zaslow. “Toss random scribbles, worksheets, and used notebooks.”Advertisement – Continue Reading Below9Outgrown or damaged summer gearmofles//Getty ImagesDon’t put damaged items into storage—you’ll regret it next summer. “Say goodbye to worn-out pool floaties, cracked goggles, and broken beach toys, along with flip-flops, sandals, and swimsuits that are stretched out or never got worn,” says Ellis.10Forgotten pantry itemsDana Hoff//Getty ImagesWith school in session, an organized pantry is key. “Go through your pantry—summer cookout condiments, stale chips, and nearly empty cereal boxes often linger longer than they should,” says Lark.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below11Faded, dirty, or broken outdoor furnituremtreasure//Getty ImagesBefore you pack away outdoor furniture, check for damage—think faded couch cushions, tears in rattan chairs, or rust on metal tables. 12Fast food extrasPla2na//Getty Images”Summer is a season for eating out,” says Richmond. “Check your kitchen, cabinets, and car—you may have a pile-up of fast food extras. You know the suspects—plastic forks, napkins, salt and pepper packets, condiments, and straws.”Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.Watch Next Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowReaders Also ReadAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More
1Serveware Containing Lead zdravinjo//Getty Images”A lot of ceramic or crystal serveware that was made pre-1971 contains unsafe levels of lead, and you should be wary about using glasses, plates, decanters, etc. that were made before that time period. But just because it can be dangerous to use for their intended purpose doesn’t mean you can’t consider those plates as wall decor or as decorative items on display.” — Kate Pearce, Kate Pearce Vintage 2Bulky ReclinersSolidago//Getty Images”I’ll take any excuse to toss a bulky recliner! That recliner may have once been the pinnacle of comfort, but its bloated silhouette never plays well in today’s homes. If the cushions are collapsing and the shape overwhelms the room, it’s time to let it go. Look instead for small-scale, vintage seating with clean lines and good bones that can be refreshed with new upholstery.” — Heather French, French & French InteriorsAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below3Damaged UpholsteryEvelien Doosje//Getty Images”Sometimes upholstered items, like chairs and sofas that are in need of an upholstery job, are not worth keeping. Reupholstering vintage furniture is always a good idea, but it can be cost-prohibitive.” — Kate Pearce, Kate Pearce Vintage4Old ElectronicsPatricia Marroquin//Getty Images”If they don’t work, there is no reason to have them and create clutter in the home.” — Alexandra Azat, Plaster & PatinaAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below5Tattered DraperyJena Ardell//Getty Images”Tattered drapery is a particular pet peeve of mine. Textiles can be the soul of a space, but when they’re threadbare, sun-faded, or harboring old stains, they drag the whole room down.” — Heather French, French & French Interiors6Old, Yellowing PlasticJess Milton//Getty Images”Nothing ages a home faster than plastic that’s gone dingy or foam that’s crumbling beneath the surface. Think old toilet seats, discolored light switch covers, or those plastic sofa slipcovers.” — Heather French, French & French InteriorsAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below7Mass-Produced ReplicasTaras Grebinets//Getty Images”I love authentic Saarinen and Eames pieces, but the mass-produced imitations from the 70s and 80s often feel dated. Veneers chip or lift, proportions are off, and the craftsmanship lacks the design pedigree of the originals. Instead of elevating a room, they can diminish it—giving the opposite impression of curated luxury.” — Kimberly Oxford, Kimberly Oxford Interiors8Stained LinensDorin Puha//Getty Images”Vintage fabrics only work when they add richness and depth, not when they remind you of mothballs and mildew.” — Heather French, French & French InteriorsAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below9Stained TupperwareCatherine McQueen//Getty Images”If there are pieces with sauce stains or that have been run through the dishwasher too many times, it’s time to throw them out and get new ones. We always suggest glass storage.” — Alexandra Azat, Plaster & Patina10Balloon-Back Chairsalexbruce//Getty Images”Our grandmother’s balloon-back chairs in dark mahogany tend to overpower modern architecture and, unless you’re restoring a historic property, they feel far too fussy for today’s lighter and more sculptural interiors.” — Kimberly Oxford, Kimberly Oxford InteriorsLaura Millar (she/her) is the assistant lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com, where she covered everything from entertainment news to pop culture updates. Watch Next Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowReaders Also ReadAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More
