Seasonal tips
Each season is different. Discover various useful tips for any time of the year, from lawn maintenance to buying a wood stove!
![Guide : 20 steps to get your yard ready for spring](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/conseil_saisonnier/terrain-printemps/Thumbnail_Article-preparer-terrain-printemps_408x200.jpg)
![Guide : 20 steps to get your yard ready for spring](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/conseil_saisonnier/terrain-printemps/Thumbnail_Article-preparer-terrain-printemps_408x200.jpg)
8 min 49 s
Guide : 20 steps to get your yard ready for spring
Winter is now giving way to spring, and to enjoy the warm weather to the fullest, you need to plan your outdoor spaces! Here are some tasks you can do in spring to get ready for summer.
![Child swimming in a pool](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/conseil_saisonnier/ouvrir-piscine/article-ouverture-piscine_408x200.jpg)
![Child swimming in a pool](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/conseil_saisonnier/ouvrir-piscine/article-ouverture-piscine_408x200.jpg)
3 min 14 s
Opening your swimming pool in the spring
With warmer days comes preparing for the summer season, and summer means swimming! Whether your pool is inground, semi-inground or above-ground, and operates with chlorine or salt, here are a few tips from our specialists to help you open it safely, easily and efficiently.
![Choosing the right lawn mower : Our top 6 tips](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Tondeuse/tondeuses_thumbnail_408x200.jpg)
![Choosing the right lawn mower : Our top 6 tips](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Tondeuse/tondeuses_thumbnail_408x200.jpg)
3 min 55 s
Choosing the right lawn mower : Our top 6 tips
Whether or not you have a green thumb, lawn mowers are a must-have for home and cottage owners. But so many questions can come up when you visit the outdoor power equipment department to pick one.
![Houseplants : Choosing the right potting soil](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Choisir_terreau/Header_Article_Choisir_Son_Terreau_Numerique_408x200px.jpg)
![Houseplants : Choosing the right potting soil](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Choisir_terreau/Header_Article_Choisir_Son_Terreau_Numerique_408x200px.jpg)
2 min 28 s
Houseplants : Choosing the right potting soil
There are a lot of potting soils and soil amendments on the market. To make sure your plants are in an environment that helps them grow and thrive, you need to choose the right potting soil for each. Read on to learn more about the main types of soil and how to use them.
![Houseplants : Common problems and how to solve them](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Plantes-interieurs/408x200_Solutions_Plantes.jpg)
![Houseplants : Common problems and how to solve them](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Plantes-interieurs/408x200_Solutions_Plantes.jpg)
2 min 24 s
Houseplants : Common problems and how to solve them
Are your plants looking a little rough? Whether they’re wilted, turning yellow or losing buds before they bloom, your plants may be trying to tell you something.
![Mistakes to avoid when growing a vegetable garden](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Erreurs_Potager/Erreurs_potager_408x200.jpg)
![Mistakes to avoid when growing a vegetable garden](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Erreurs_Potager/Erreurs_potager_408x200.jpg)
2 min 38 s
Mistakes to avoid when growing a vegetable garden
Growing a vegetable garden is a rewarding activity for people of all ages. With just a few tools, you can grow an impressive variety of vegetables, fruits and herbs to fill up your plate throughout the summer season and beyond. To maximize your chances of success and reap a bountiful harvest, here are five mistakes to avoid when starting out your garden.
![How to start a flower garden in 5 steps](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Plate-Bande/408x200_Plate-bande.jpg)
![How to start a flower garden in 5 steps](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Plate-Bande/408x200_Plate-bande.jpg)
3 min 39 s
How to start a flower garden in 5 steps
Your flower garden is a central element of your home’s exterior that will be with you for years to come. To keep your garden tidy and manageable in the long run, it’s important to plan it well. Here are a few tips to help you bring your dream garden to life.
![5 tips to help your plants survive heat waves](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/5_CONSEILS_PLANTES_CANICULE_408x200.jpg)
![5 tips to help your plants survive heat waves](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/5_CONSEILS_PLANTES_CANICULE_408x200.jpg)
4 min 15 s
5 tips to help your plants survive heat waves
With hot, dry summers becoming more common in recent years, it can be challenging to garden without using large amounts of water. However, by watering your plants correctly, you can limit water use and still give your plants the moisture they need.
![How to manage wasps around your home](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Controle-Guepes/Tumbnail_800x408.jpg)
![How to manage wasps around your home](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Controle-Guepes/Tumbnail_800x408.jpg)
2 min 20 s
How to manage wasps around your home
Are you hearing buzzing and worrying that wasps might be taking up residence around your home? Don’t panic about a potential nest—first, figure out what kind of insect you’re dealing with. If it is indeed a wasp nest, follow our advice on how to get rid of it safely.
![How to start a garden for under $200](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/jardin_moins_200_408x200.jpg)
![How to start a garden for under $200](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/jardin_moins_200_408x200.jpg)
1 min 36 s
How to start a garden for under $250
5Have surging grocery prices put you in a mind to start growing your own food? We’ve got just what you need: a complete, easy-to-maintain garden for under $250. No tools required—just get growing.
![How to plan your patio project](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/planifier_projet_patio_408x200.jpg)
![How to plan your patio project](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/planifier_projet_patio_408x200.jpg)
4 min 39 s
How to plan your patio project
The deck is often an extension of the house. But for this extension to be practical and comfortable, it is important to plan it well so that it meets your family's needs.
![An outdoor kitchen that won't break the bank](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/CuisineExt_PetitPrix_408x200.jpg)
![An outdoor kitchen that won't break the bank](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/CuisineExt_PetitPrix_408x200.jpg)
5 min 53 s
An outdoor kitchen that won't break the bank
Anyone can create an outdoor dining area no matter how much space they have to work with. Even though a top-quality outdoor kitchen requires specific materials that are often more expensive, you can still achieve something that’s good and will last with different materials that cost less.
![Buyer's guide: Selecting the right air conditioner](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/Guide_climatiseur_408x200.jpg)
![Buyer's guide: Selecting the right air conditioner](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/Guide_climatiseur_408x200.jpg)
4 min 52 s
Buyer's guide: Selecting the right air conditioner
Our summers may be short, but when the heatwaves hit, it often comes as a surprise. Investing in an air conditioner ensures a cool night’s sleep so that you can enjoy summer to the fullest. Here are some recommendations to help you choose. Click to learn more and read our buyer’s guide.
![Buying guide: how to pick your barbecue](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/guide_choisir_BBQ_408x200.jpg)
![Buying guide: how to pick your barbecue](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/guide_choisir_BBQ_408x200.jpg)
4 min 44 s
Buying guide: how to pick your barbecue
Nothing says “summer” like grilling on the barbecue. Although gas models are more popular for their practicality, some people swear by charcoal as it guarantees incomparably flavoured results. Here are a few things to consider when shopping for a BBQ.
![10 tips for staining your terrace](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/10conseils_teindre_terrasse_408x200.jpg)
![10 tips for staining your terrace](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/10conseils_teindre_terrasse_408x200.jpg)
1 min 38 s
10 tips for staining your terrace
Snow, rain, mold and UV rays alter exterior wood. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare surfaces for staining.
![Child swimming in a pool](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/Sans_titre-1_1.jpg)
![Child swimming in a pool](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/Sans_titre-1_1.jpg)
2 min 41 s
10 tips for making the most of your small outdoor space
Even if your back yard or balcony is small, you can still make it your own without breaking the bank. Here are a few tips for an outdoor space that’s comfortable, functional and stylish!
![Brighten up your backyard with outdoor lighting](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/inspiration-eclairage_Ext_408x200.jpg)
![Brighten up your backyard with outdoor lighting](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/inspiration-eclairage_Ext_408x200.jpg)
5 min 20 s
Brighten up your backyard with outdoor lighting
Naturally, outdoor lighting highlights landscaping, but it also helps make important areas safe, such as the entry to your house, stairs and walkways. Here are some ideas to light up your outdoors.
![Getting the most out of your BBQ](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/optimiser_son_BBQ_408x200.jpg)
![Getting the most out of your BBQ](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/optimiser_son_BBQ_408x200.jpg)
5 min 1 s
Getting the most out of your BBQ
Whether propane or charcoal, the barbecue holds a special place among the hearts of all those who love to get grilling over the summer. Here are some ideas to help you make the most of your barbecue.
![10 things to do when moving house](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/10_choses_demenagement_408x200.jpg)
![10 things to do when moving house](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/10_choses_demenagement_408x200.jpg)
4 min 24 s
10 things to do when moving house
With the imminent arrival of a move, there follows a bit of anxiety, stress and moments when you wonder if you have forgotten something. Don't panic, a good preparation, a few lists and a little bit of organization will help you to manage the big day.
![How to make compost at home?](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/faire_compost_maison_408x200.jpg)
![How to make compost at home?](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/faire_compost_maison_408x200.jpg)
3 min 11 s
How to make compost at home?
Over the past few years, composting has become a widely adopted environmental practice. Compost is often called the “black gold” of gardeners, as the decomposed waste becomes a very fertile and hummus-rich soil that promotes plant cultivation.
![Poultry farming guide](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/Elever_des_poules_408x200.jpg)
![Poultry farming guide](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/Elever_des_poules_408x200.jpg)
3 min 37 s
Poultry farming guide
Having a chicken coop at home is a rewarding activity that will appeal to young and old alike, as well as providing you with a supply of top quality eggs.
![10 ways to get ready for spring flooding](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/conseil_saisonnier/Inondations/inondation_408x200.jpg)
![10 ways to get ready for spring flooding](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/conseil_saisonnier/Inondations/inondation_408x200.jpg)
1 min 48 s
10 ways to get ready for spring flooding
Thawing season can be a source of anxiety for many homeowners living near a body of water. Here is our checklist of things you can do to reduce the risk of flooding in your home this spring.
![How to keep rodents out of your house in the fall](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/empecher_rongeur_408x200.jpg)
![How to keep rodents out of your house in the fall](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/empecher_rongeur_408x200.jpg)
1 min 30 s
How to keep rodents out of your house in the fall
Mice and rats are looking for a place to hole up before winter comes, and they can use incredible ingenuity to get inside cottages, trailers and even homes. They may be cute, but these small animals can do big damage.
![How to properly use ice melters in winter](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/alaskan-bmr-website-article-thumbnail_408x200_2.jpg)
![How to properly use ice melters in winter](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/alaskan-bmr-website-article-thumbnail_408x200_2.jpg)
1 min 37 s
How to properly use ice melters in winter
Every winter, it's the same thing: you find yourself in the ice melters aisle of your local hardware store, not knowing what to buy. This article explains how to effectively de-ice your driveway by using the right de-icing products at the right time.
![Protecting your plants and lawn for winter](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Protections_hivernales/Thumbnail-408x200.jpg)
![Protecting your plants and lawn for winter](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Protections_hivernales/Thumbnail-408x200.jpg)
3 min 07 s
Protecting your plants and lawn for winter
Temperatures are dropping, and fall is just around the corner. That means it’s time to think about protecting your plants from the harsh conditions of winter. But where to begin?
![How to plant seedlings to forget your winter blues](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/preparer_semis_408x200.jpg)
![How to plant seedlings to forget your winter blues](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/preparer_semis_408x200.jpg)
3 min 36 s
How to plant seedlings to forget your winter blues
Are the grey skies and snow making you feel like winter will never end? Why not pass the time by planting some seedlings indoors? It’s an inexpensive activity that will get you in the mood for the coming spring.
![How to produce maple syrup at home](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Guide_acericole_debutant/faire-SiropErable_408x200.jpg)
![How to produce maple syrup at home](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Guide_acericole_debutant/faire-SiropErable_408x200.jpg)
4 min 13 s
How to produce maple syrup at home
Many maple syrup lovers want to produce their own syrup at home, just for fun. Interested in getting started? This article will demystify the main steps involved in maple syrup production, providing you with great tips and the products you’ll need to harvest maple sap and turn it into delicious syrup.
![How to install and anchor your car shelter](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/installer_fixer_abri_408x200.jpg)
![How to install and anchor your car shelter](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/installer_fixer_abri_408x200.jpg)
3 min 18 s
How to install and anchor your car shelter
If you don’t have a garage, car shelters can be very useful in winter for keeping the snow and ice off your car in bad weather. But they have to be installed properly to make sure that they don’t buckle under heavy snow or get blown away by the wind.
![Choosing the right electric heater](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/choisir_chauffage_elect_408x200.jpg)
![Choosing the right electric heater](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/choisir_chauffage_elect_408x200.jpg)
4 min 50 s
Choosing the right electric heater
In Quebec, heating is a must to stay warm during the winter. But choosing the right electric heater can be a challenge. Here are some tips to help you make the best choice.
![Buyer's guide: Which fireplace meets your needs?](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/Guide_choisir_foyer_408x200.jpg)
![Buyer's guide: Which fireplace meets your needs?](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/articles/Hub-inspiration-conseils/Guide_choisir_foyer_408x200.jpg)
4 min 44 s
Buyer's guide: Which fireplace meets your needs?
A fireplace is a sure-fire way to create an atmosphere and can be a good back-up heating solution, depending on the model chosen. Here are the things to consider when purchasing your fireplace.
![Thermostats : How to decide which one is right for you](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/Thumbnail-guide-thermostats_408x200_V2_1.jpg)
![Thermostats : How to decide which one is right for you](https://www.bmr.ca/media/wysiwyg/Thumbnail-guide-thermostats_408x200_V2_1.jpg)
2 min 38 s
Thermostats : How to decide which one is right for you
The unit on the wall that controls your heat sources, the thermostat ensures the temperature is just right for you. Although there are a range of models out there, not all offer the same level of precision and potential for energy savings.