Brandee Gruener

1 day ago | southernliving.com | Brandee Gruener

We all know the results when we forget to water: A shriveled, brown, crunchy plant or a sad collection of dead sticks in cracked soil. Fortunately, our plants send out signals long before this tragedy occurs. There are many indications that you are underwatering your plants that apply to both indoor plants and outdoor plants in the garden. If you're wondering whether you need to water your plants more often, here are some lesser-known signs of underwatering to watch out for.

4 days ago | southernliving.com | Brandee Gruener

Plus, what not to plant with cabbage. By Brandee GruenerPublished on June 15, 2025 Credit: yujie chen / Getty Images Cabbages are an easy vegetable to grow as long as you give them what they need: rich, well-draining soil and consistent moisture. Plus, they look delightful lined up in a row like a scene out of "Peter Rabbit." Unfortunately, those charming heads of cabbage often end up full of holes from all sorts of insect pests.

4 days ago | southernliving.com | Brandee Gruener

By Brandee GruenerPublished on June 14, 2025 Credit: Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Liz Strong Key TakeawaysSteam cleaning is an effective way to refresh outdoor cushions that can't be machine-washed, helping remove dirt, mold, and mildew. Always check fabric care labels first; some materials may not be steam-safe. Deep clean cushions twice a year, spot treat stains before steaming, and let cushions dry completely in a warm spot—sunshine helps prevent mildew.

6 days ago | southernliving.com | Brandee Gruener

By Brandee GruenerPublished on June 13, 2025 Credit: Photographer: Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Lindsey Ellis Beatty Key TakeawaysWash linen sheets every one to two weeks using a gentle cycle and cool to lukewarm water to preserve the fibers and prevent shrinkage. Avoid fabric softeners; instead, use wool dryer balls and remove sheets promptly from the dryer to minimize wrinkles. For a crisper look, iron sheets while slightly damp on a high steam setting and hang immediately to finish drying.

6 days ago | southernliving.com | Brandee Gruener

Not every day is laundry day for these items. By Brandee GruenerPublished on June 12, 2025 Credit: Carol Yepes / Getty Images When it comes to washing your family's stinky socks, there's no such thing as too much cleaning. But there are certain household items we can get overzealous about washing. Too much laundering can wear out, fade, or shrink fabrics before their time.