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    Design Pros Say This Popular Finish Will Make Your Kitchen Look “Dated”

    When it comes to finishes, brass has long reigned supreme. From kitchen cabinets outfitted with brass hardware to brass bathroom fixtures and lighting choices, it seems to be everywhere. While there’s no denying that the popular metal adds a dose of warmth and glam to a room, some interior designers say it’s time to give it a rest. That’s right: They believe brass finishes are out in 2025.Designers weigh in “Brass and gold finishes have added a lot of warmth and glamour to interiors over the years, but I do feel they have become a little overdone. For me, design should always feel personal and timeless, not just a reflection of what’s trending.” — Kelly Hoppen of Kelly Hoppen Interiors”There are a lot of brass and gold tones out there that continue to grow with suppliers and manufacturers of various products within the industry such as in lighting, plumbing and hardware. As these have tended to saturate the design market, we’ve definitely seen a surge towards alternative finishes. ” — Aleem Kassam of Kalu Interiors “The brass and gold trend has reached a saturation point in residential design. While these finishes were once the go-to for adding warmth and contrast to the cool gray and white minimalist interiors that dominated for years, they are no longer as popular.” — Mary Gordon of InSite Builders & Remodeling”Bright polished brass can make a kitchen or bathroom look dated compared to the modern clean styles and finishes like satin brass, matte black or brushed nickel.” — Shannon Kadwell of Anthony Wilder Design-BuildRelated StoryWhat’s replacing brass? Interior designer Tracy Morris of Tracy Morris Design confirms that brass isn’t going to disappear completely. There will just be less of the shiny finish. “Lately, I’ve been loving softer, more lived-in finishes like aged brass, antique pewter and even muted black metals,” Morris says. “These tones feel more refined and versatile, and they pair beautifully with a range of materials and styles. I’m also seeing a lot more mixed metals in one space, which adds depth and keeps things feeling fresh. It’s less about being trendy and more about creating a layered, timeless look.” Hoppen has also noticed that people seem to be drawn to “softer, more layered metallics like brushed nickel, antique bronze and even matte black, which bring a subtler, more individual feel to a space.” While Kassam has been sourcing dark bronze, black chrome and black steel for his clients, explaining that they’re “understated but rich in character.” And Gordon has found that people now favor choices that are more grounded and architectural: “Aged iron, soft black and oil-rubbed bronze are being chosen for their ability to add depth and contrast without overwhelming a room. These tones pair well with natural materials like wood and stone and help create a sense of balance.” tulcarion//Getty ImagesRather than brass, designers say finishes, including black, will continue to grow in popularity. Weathered hardware and lighting finishes, including pewter and antique nickel, are gaining in popularity as well, Gordons says. They can “subtly influence the tone of a room.” Rather than making such a bold statement with shiny brass, “fixtures in darker metals bring a quieter and more understated presence to a space.” Overall, conducting some research to pinpoint the right finish for a particular space can pay off, according to designer Julie Anne Burch. “It’s a wonderful creative opportunity. Every vendor offers a wide range of options, each varying in tone, sheen and color, giving designers the freedom to tailor a space with intention. Whether you choose a finish that blends seamlessly with its surroundings or one that stands out through contrast, it should always enhance the overall story of the room.” “There’s a clear emphasis on materials that feel more thoughtful and responsible, perhaps influenced by broader conversations around sustainability,” Gordon says. “The focus has turned from making a statement to creating substance, with texture and tone taking precedence over shine.” Get More Design Trend NewsMonique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand’s home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, “What’s in My Cart.” More

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    Why You Should Consider Wall-to-Wall Carpeting

    Carpets are so back. That cozy wall-to-wall look is trending once again thanks to new technology from brands like Lifeproof and Lifeproof with Petproof Technology, which offers luxuriously soft weaves, superior stain and odor resistance, and a plethora of trending styles, exclusively at the Home Depot. So if you’re interested in incorporating this luxurious flooring into your home, read our handy guide below, and get ready to step into comfort.The Benefits of Wall-to-Wall CarpetingIn addition to that aforementioned cozy, inviting vibe, wall-to-wall is a popular choice for its insulating properties (great for drafty homes) and safety features (reducing the risk of slips and falls and providing a soft surface for little ones and seniors alike). “I also love the acoustic benefits,” Virginia-based interior designer Cathleen Gruver says. “It helps absorb sound, which can make a big difference in bedrooms or upstairs spaces.” On the design front, she adds, it can often provide a more finished, cohesive look to a home than rugs “that constantly need straightening.”The Home DepotWhat Rooms Are Best for Wall-to-Wall“Bedrooms are my top pick,” says Gruver. “There’s something comforting about stepping out of bed in the morning onto plush carpet.” She also recommends the carpeting for basements and media rooms — anywhere sound control or warmth matter. For her part, Bay Area design consultant Lily Li likes a soft flooring option on stairs and in kids’ rooms or play areas, like Lifeproof Hazelton II textured carpet. “It makes it much easier to sit on the floor and play with your toddler,” she says, adding that since “kids are going to crawl on everything, you should get a carpet with stain resistance.” Lifeproof with Petproof Technology’s Plush Dreams II fits that bill, too: It’s super-soft, yet made with durable fibers that offer superior stain and odor resistance. And it’s resistant to fading, so you don’t have to worry about that common dingy look carpets often get over time. As with all Lifeproof and Lifeproof with Petproof Technology products, there’s a solid warranty on pet and household stains. And when purchased with a Lifeproof carpet pad, you get a cozy enhancement that also gets you a lifetime warranty on wear. The Right Wall-to-Wall Option for YouWith so many elevated, modern options available in terms of pattern, texture, twist, loop and berber, finding a style to fit your aesthetic and budget isn’t hard nowadays. The trick is choosing the right application and understanding your lifestyle, says Gruver. If you have an active household with kids and pets, you want durability. “Look for high-density fibers and tightly twisted yarns — they resist crushing and matting,” Gruver says. “Pile height is also important — the length of the carpet fibers,” she continues. “A lower pile tends to be more durable and easier to clean, while a higher pile feels more plush and luxurious.” So generally speaking, a high pile is great for a bedroom, and a lower one is better for high-traffic zones like living rooms and hallways. If yours is a bustling household, you’ll also want an option that’s easy to maintain — without compromising on style. Lifeproof with Petproof Technology’s Beyond Cozy carpet checks all the boxes. The medium-pile fibers are silky-soft yet can handle stains, spills and even an impromptu wrestling match, and they come in a variety of beautifully vibrant colors. And as with all Lifeproof with Petproof Technology products, there’s a solid warranty in place, ensuring your floors will always look and feel good.The Home DepotxHow to Choose the Right StyleOnce you’ve found the right type of carpet for how your space will be used, you can select a style. For a family room, Gruver recommends a patterned option, like Lifeproof with Petproof Technology’s Crystal Cavern carpet, to hide footprints and vacuum marks. “Patterned carpets are a great way to add visual interest without being overwhelming,” she says. “Always consider color and fiber type, too — darker tones can feel cozy, while lighter tones can make a room feel more open.”Get 10% off the Lifeproof Carpet System from 6/19–7/6. More

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    This Is the Easiest Way to Declutter Your Entire Home — Without Any Stress

    I’ve lost track of how many times I’ve seen a piece of clothing or kitchen gadget I no longer use or need and think to myself, “I’ll get rid of it next time I declutter.”But then next time isn’t for a few weeks or even months, and whatever that item is just stays in its place, contributing to the clutter. That’s the problem with how so many people view decluttering, myself included. Rather than incorporating it into our everyday routines, we see it as a challenging task — one you have to dedicate at least a whole day to for it to be “worth it.” “Gradual decluttering” debunks that entire thought process, and professional organizers agree that it makes getting rid of clutter a whole lot easier. “This is a much less overwhelming experience because you aren’t overloaded with decision-making all at once,” says Emily Mass of Spaces by Emily. So how can you finally tackle your clutter on a day-by-day basis? I spoke to a few professional organizers to learn more about the process, their recommended steps and the benefits. Gradual Decluttering, Explained Gradual decluttering is just what it sounds like: making time every day to complete just a few small organizational tasks. Damian Lugowski//Getty Images”Gradual decluttering is all about tackling clutter a little bit at a time instead of trying to overhaul your entire space in one marathon session. It’s perfect for people who don’t have hours to spare — or who feel totally overwhelmed just thinking about it. When you break it down into small chunks, it feels way more doable, and you’re less likely to burn out or give up halfway through,” says Lindsay Melvin of Orchid Organizing. Ultimately, gradual decluttering is about changing your mindset and forming new habits. Decluttering doesn’t have to be an event. It can be something you do every day to the point where you don’t even really realize you’re doing it — as simple as getting in the habit of wiping down the table after dinner or washing the dishes when they pile up. How to Gradually Declutter While decluttering little by little without feeling overwhelmed sounds great in theory, you might not know how to get started. Professional organizers share their most helpful tips and tricks. Catherine McQueen//Getty ImagesSet an alarm: Five or 10 minutes is all you need to get started. “This is a great mid-day exercise when you need a break from work, or you can even make it part of your nighttime clean-up routine,” says Mass.Determine your clutter zones: Whether it’s the closet, garage or kids’ space, determine the zones of your home that accumulate the most clutter and place a basket in each room. Every time you walk in and see something you no longer need, throw it in there and take it out to donate once it’s full. Settle on a certain amount of items: “Commit to removing a certain number of items per day — even just one or two makes a big difference,” says Elsa Elbert of Composed Living. Having a goal, regardless of how small, will help you stay accountable. Fill up a donation bin: Whenever you notice an item that can be donated or thrown away, don’t wait to get rid of it. “Put items in a large bin — once it’s full, donate it,” says Amelia Meena of Appleshine. Start with non-sentimental items: “If you try to start the process by decluttering your favorite objects, you’ll be more likely to get discouraged right away,” says Elbert. Start with a t-shirt drawer or medicine cabinet instead to gain some momentum.Alexandr Kolesnikov//Getty ImagesThe Benefits Instead of letting everything accumulate to the point where you’re too anxious to even begin, take it day by day. Gradual decluttering will help you maintain a consistently organized home without all the stress that comes with organizational marathons. While a decluttered home is certainly one benefit, it’s not the most important one. By gradually decluttering every day, you’re more likely to make it a habit, which means you can eliminate those hour-long sessions for good. “When decluttering becomes a consistent, bite-sized part of your routine, it naturally builds awareness around what you bring into your home and how you manage your space. Over time, this gentle, ongoing process helps shift your mindset from reactive cleanup to intentional living, making tidiness feel more like second nature than a special project,” says Elbert. Declutter With UsLaura 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.  More

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    21 Window Sill Decorating Ideas to Make the Most of Your Space

    1DIY a Plant ShelfA Beautiful MessTransform your window sill into a shelf for your favorite plants. They need the fresh sunlight, after all. Place a few right on the windowsill itself, or build a two-tier shelf to fit even more succulents. See more at A Beautiful Mess »2Cozy up a Window BenchBless’er HouseIf you’re lucky enough to have a cozy window seat in your home, you might as well dress it up with cushions, pillows and blankets. Whether you choose to lay down with a good book or simply daydream into the distance, window benches are the ultimate relaxation spot. See more at Bless’er House »Advertisement – Continue Reading Below3Show off Floral Arrangements@ahometomakeyousmileWith lighting like this, it’s almost impossible not to stare at these stunning floral arrangements. Embrace your love for all-things-floral and place your vases right on the window sill so you can enjoy looking at them from the comfort of your own couch. See more @ahometomakeyousmile »4Go VintageBrepurposedAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below5Add a Few Picture FramesLiudmila Chernetska//Getty ImagesDepending on the size of your window sill, you might be able to fit a few of your best family photos. Frame your favorite memories with loved ones and put them on display all year round.6Utilize the Extra Storage SpaceFor The HomeBlogger Christine Higgs of For the Home places her jar of kitchen utensils right on the window sill for easy access while cooking. If you have a window right above the stove, consider using it to store spices or other kitchen gadgets to free up some space elsewhere. See more at For the Home »Advertisement – Continue Reading Below7Display a Cutting BoardThe DIY PlaybookSure, cutting boards are a useful kitchen tool. But some are even pretty enough to put on display full time. This blogger uses one of her small cutting boards for a plant and candle she lights every night after dinner.See more at The DIY Playbook »8Ditch the Nightstand Анатолий Тушенцов//Getty ImagesIf you have a window right next to your bed, you might be able to ditch your night stand for good. Keep your lamp right on the window sill. Not only is it convenient, it’s also stylish.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below9Add Holiday DecorFor The HomeWhen the holiday season comes around, use your windowsill to create the ultimate winter wonderland. Christine Higgs of For the Home incorporates bottle brush trees in her bedroom for a touch of holiday charm. See more at For the Home »10Add a Pop of ColorStyle by Emily HendersonWhat’s better than the fresh smell of coffee paired with some morning sunlight? Paint your window sill for an unexpected pop of color and top it off with some greenery for the coffee station of your dreams. See more at Style by Emily Henderson » Advertisement – Continue Reading Below11Turn It Into a Reading NookDomestically Blissful12Plant a Herb GardenThe DIY PlaybookAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below13Take Advantage of ShelvingStyle by Emily Henderson14Stack Some BooksEkaterina Morozova//Getty ImagesDon’t have room for a full bookshelf? Stack a few of your favorites on the window sill. It doesn’t count as clutter if it looks good, right?Advertisement – Continue Reading Below15Extend the LedgeStyle by Emily HendersonDIY your own headboard right under your bedroom window for an extended ledge. Decorate with artwork, plants or even incorporate your own tray table like this blogger does. See more at Style by Emily Henderson »16Brighten up the Placegollykim//Getty ImagesA fresh vase of summer flowers has the power to transform any space. Whether in your kitchen, bedroom or bathroom, consider adding a few floral arrangements. You might be surprised how much of a difference it makes. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below17Incorporate AntiquesInspired by Charm18Install More ShelvesStyle by Emily HendersonIf one window sill just isn’t enough, don’t worry. Install more shelves right above the window sill. With open shelving, you’ll have more storage space without blocking any of that much-needed sunlight.See more at Style by Emily Henderson »Advertisement – Continue Reading Below19Decorate a PlanterIt All Started With PaintPut that old planter box to use by incorporating it into your home decor. Fill it with candles, flowers or anything else you want to show off on your window sill. See more at It All Started With Paint »20Keep It FreshJenna Sue DesignLaura 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 BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

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    How to Master the Viral Grandmacore Aesthetic, According to Designers

    For some reason, many people’s vision of grandma’s house tends to consist of the same key features: charming knick knacks, cozy throws, antique glassware and other personality-filled decor. Grandma’s house is eclectic yet traditional, cluttered yet collected and beyond anything else — authentically her own. With over 50,000 posts under the hashtag “Grandmacore,” TikTok users are embracing design features that take them back to the good old days at grandma’s. “I totally get the grandmacore appeal. It’s cozy, personal and a big ol’ hug in decor form. It’s trending because people are craving just that — comfort and a sense of story in their space, especially after years of minimalism’s cold, gray and beige reign,” says Kristina Lawrence of Kristina Lawrence Interior Design.While many of us have fond memories of grandma’s house and seek to recreate the warm, inviting vibe she so gracefully mastered, the “grandmacore aesthetic” is about more than just breaking out a few antiques and throwing some doilies on the table — it can actually be quite tricky to pull off without proper guidance. We spoke to a few interior designers for insight on the trend, including how to nail it while sticking to your own preferred interior design style. Related StoryWhat Is the “Grandmacore Aesthetic?””The grandmacore aesthetic draws inspiration from the cozy, traditional style often associated with, well, grandmas,” says Meghan Jay of Meghan Jay Design. “It emphasizes a nostalgic, layered look through the use of vintage pieces and mixed patterns. The result is a warm, slightly cluttered charm that feels both familiar and cozy.”Think embroidered pillows, tchotchkes and bold wallpaper. Grandmacore is all about building character within a home. “In a time when we’re all being encouraged to lean into individuality, grandmacore is a style that wholeheartedly celebrates you,” says Madison Shoemaker of Inside Stories.Why Is Grandmacore Trending?Retro design trends have been making a comeback for quite some time now. Vintage glassware, decorative molding and antique decor are just a few of the ways homeowners are welcoming design elements of years past back into their homes. But grandmacore is a bit more complex.While incorporating trends from earlier decades is certainly part of grandmacore, there’s another important aspect to the trend — expressing yourself through home design. “Grandmacore invites you to leave out the family photos, display that quirky flea market find and embrace pieces that don’t necessarily ‘match’ but mean something to you,” says Shoemaker.In other words, there’s no particular design feature or piece of decor you should display to achieve the grandmacore aesthetic. It’s more of a concept, one where you can display whatever adds a piece of who you are to a space, and that’s what people love so much about it. Pro Tips to Master the TrendBefore you start digging out all your vintage finds and family heirlooms to scatter throughout the house, take a few pieces of practical advice from pro designers. KatarzynaBialasiewicz//Getty Images ✔️ Find the sweet spot: “Grandmacore subscribes to the ‘more-is-more’ mindset, but eventually you can hit the point of ‘too much.’ Try mixing in a few simpler pieces with clean lines and solid patterns,” says Shoemaker.✔️ Allow for breathing room: “Be sure to create moments where the eye can rest. For example, an armchair in a subtle, tone-on-tone tweed can provide a calming backdrop for a brighter pillow and ottoman,” says Jay. ✔️ Prioritize meaningful pieces: “To decorate grandmacore-style without going full antique store explosion, pick a few meaningful heirlooms with history to them, add some warm textures like lace or velvet, throw in some beautifully patina’d metals and wood and stick to a muted, nature-inspired palette,” says Lawrence. ✔️ Don’t be afraid to mix and match: “The key is to layer textures and prints freely and bring in texture through a mix of hard materials — especially rich, warm wood tones,” says Jay.Related StoriesLaura 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.  More

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    24 TV Wall Ideas for a Functional yet Cozy Movie Night

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    11 Fast-Growing Fruit Trees That Bring Homegrown Flavor Sooner

    1Meyer Lemon (Citrus × meyeri)Barbara Rich//Getty ImagesSweet, fragrant and compact enough for a sunny window, Meyer lemon trees are a citrus lover’s dream. Their fruit is less acidic than regular lemons, making them ideal for cooking and cocktails. These trees thrive in containers, as long as you don’t overwater them. “They’re very sensitive to wet roots,” Ali explains. “Use well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes, and fertilize regularly with citrus food.” These trees are prone to spider mites and need periodic checks during winter.Zones: 8-11 (bring indoors in cooler zones)Sunlight: Full sunTime to fruit: 1-2 years (if grafted)Pollination: Self-pollinatingContainer-Friendly: YesRELATED: How to Grow a Lemon Tree, According to Gardening Experts2Fig (Ficus carica)by IAISI//Getty ImagesFigs are among the easiest fruit trees for home gardeners. They grow quickly, adapt well to containers and produce rich, honeyed fruit — often in their second or third year. Davey Institute experts praise their adaptability but recommend keeping the tree warm and well-pruned. “Figs need a lot of sun and do best when the soil dries slightly between waterings,” Ali advises. While most varieties don’t require pollination partners, some may drop fruit if stressed, so consistent care matters.USDA Zones: 7-10Sunlight: Full sunTime to fruit: 2-3 yearsPollination: Self-pollinatingContainer-friendly: Yes, especially dwarf varietiesRELATED: How to Grow Fresh Figs Right in Your BackyardAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below3Peach (Prunus persica)Bob Pool//Getty ImagesThe idea of plucking a sun-warmed peach from your own tree sounds irresistible, but it comes with a bit of work. Peaches are fast-growing and productive, especially if you choose a dwarf variety for small spaces, but they’re also prone to disease. “They’re particularly susceptible to peach leaf curl,” Ali warns. Preventative spraying and annual pruning are essential to keep the tree healthy and productive.USDA Zones: 5-9Sunlight: Full sunTime to fruit: 2-4 yearsPollination: Self-pollinatingContainer-friendly: Dwarf types only4Mulberry (Morus spp.)Ali Majdfar//Getty ImagesMulberries are a favorite among wildlife and gardeners who love a fast payoff. These trees grow quickly and begin producing juicy, blackberry-like fruit within a year or two. Ali calls them “one of the easiest fruit trees to maintain,” but advises planting them away from patios or walkways, since dropped fruit can stain. Minimal pruning and full sun are all they need to flourish.USDA Zones: 4-9Sunlight: Full sunTime to fruit: 1-2 yearsPollination: Self-pollinatingContainer-friendly: Dwarf or weeping types onlyAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below5Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica)BLK_Design//Getty ImagesLoquats are a warm-climate gem, offering clusters of sweet-tart, golden fruit and lush, evergreen foliage. They bloom and fruit in winter or early spring, making them unique among fruit trees. Their flowers are frost-sensitive, so they’re best for climates with mild winters. “Good drainage and full sun are critical,” Ali says. While they can grow in large containers, loquats thrive in the ground and need protection from cold snaps during bloom time.USDA Zones: 8-10Sunlight: Full sunTime to fruit: 2-3 yearsPollination: Self-pollinatingContainer-friendly: Somewhat, prefers in-ground6Mandarin (Citrus reticulata)wulingyun//Getty ImagesMandarins are a favorite for their sweet flavor and peel-and-eat convenience, and they grow especially well in containers. Just be sure to give them the heat and sun they crave. They require consistent warmth and a citrus-specific potting mix. Water deeply, let the topsoil dry slightly between waterings and keep an eye out for scale and aphids. Like Meyer lemons, they’re ideal for sunny patios and overwintering indoors in cooler zones.USDA Zones: 8-11Sunlight: Full sunTime to fruit: 2-3 yearsPollination: Self-pollinatingContainer-friendly: YesAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below7Pomegranate (Punica granatum)Photos from Japan, Asia and othe of the world//Getty ImagesPomegranates are beautiful, resilient and surprisingly easy to grow. With showy flowers and antioxidant-packed fruit, they’re an ornamental and edible powerhouse. They tolerate drought and poor soil well, making them ideal for busy gardeners. Dwarf varieties do well in containers. Prune regularly to encourage airflow and shape, and hold off on watering as fruit nears maturity for a sweeter, more concentrated flavor.USDA Zones: 7-10Sunlight: Full sunTime to fruit: 2-3 yearsPollination: Self-pollinatingContainer-friendly: Yes; dwarf types preferred8Persimmon (Diospyros spp.)Pakin Songmor//Getty ImagesPersimmons bring beauty and flavor, with glossy foliage and deep orange fruit that ripens in fall. For beginners, non-astringent varieties like ‘Fuyu’ are the easiest choice. “These are generally low-maintenance trees,” Ali says. Just stake young trees for support and make sure they’re in full sun. For astringent types, allow the fruit to fully ripen on the tree to mellow the bitterness.USDA Zones: 4-9Sunlight: Full sunTime to fruit: 3-5 yearsPollination: Many are self-pollinatingContainer-friendly: Dwarf types onlyAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below9Apricot (Prunus armeniaca)NNehring//Getty ImagesApricots are a bit of a gamble — but when they pay off, it’s worth it. Their delicate blossoms appear early in spring, which makes them vulnerable to frost damage. “Choose cold-hardy varieties and site them in a sheltered, sunny location,”Ali recommends. While self-pollinating, they benefit from some hands-on care like fruit thinning (removing excess fruit) and regular pruning. Expect a challenge, but also an exceptionally sweet reward.USDA Zones: 5-8Sunlight: Full sunTime to fruit: 2-4 yearsPollination: Self-pollinatingContainer-friendly: Not ideal; prefers in-ground10Cherry (Prunus avium / Prunus cerasus)saraTM//Getty ImagesCherries offer dazzling spring blooms and mouthwatering fruit, but they’re not the easiest to grow. “Sweet cherries usually need a pollinator and lots of airflow to avoid disease,” says Ali. Sour cherries are more compact and often self-pollinating, making them better suited for small gardens or containers. Protect the fruit with netting if birds are a problem, and be ready to invest in consistent pruning and monitoring.USDA Zones: 4-9Sunlight: Full sunTime to fruit: 3-5 yearsPollination: Some varieties self-pollinate; others require cross-pollinationContainer-friendly: Not ideal; dwarf sour types onlyAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below11 Dwarf Apple (Malus domestica)Dhoxax//Getty ImagesDwarf apple trees are ideal for small yards and patios, offering the classic apple experience in a scaled-down form. They’re relatively fast to produce, but they do need a bit of care to stay healthy. “Regular pruning is a must, and so is pest and disease management,” says Ali. Apple scab and codling moths are common issues, so stay alert. If your variety isn’t self-pollinating, be sure to plant a compatible cultivar nearby for best results.USDA Zones: 3-8Sunlight: Full sunTime to fruit: 2-4 yearsPollination: Some varieties self-pollinate; others need cross-pollination Container-friendly: Dwarf types onlyDebbie Wolfe is a writer, photographer, and author. She has contributed hundreds of home and garden articles and DIY tutorials to leading media outlets and retailers. Debbie covers all home and gardening topics and has published hundreds of DIY tutorials with step-by-step photography for leading home and garden media outlets.Watch Next Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More