Emily Hayes

Monroe

Lifestyle Contributing Writer at Martha Stewart Living

Writer at Freelance

Editor, Advice Products at U.S. News and World Report

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Articles

Here's How to Get Financially Ready for Homeownership

1 week ago | money.usnews.com | Jennifer Calonia |Ray Frager |Emily Hayes

Saving up for a down payment is not the only preparation required for purchasing a home. Improving your credit score, paying down existing debt and avoiding any big financial shifts are among the action steps you'll need to take. You might also begin researching loan types and reputable lenders. Getting to a point where you feel emotionally and mentally ready to buy a house can be a journey on its own. But your work doesn't stop there.
How to Make Tulip Bouquets Last Longer, According to Floral Designers

1 week ago | marthastewart.com | Emily Hayes

You know spring has officially arrived when colorful perennials like tulips start popping up in gardens and the bouquet aisle of grocery stores. Who can resist bringing some inside for a splash of seasonal color? While there are hundreds of varieties to choose from and countless ways to arrange them, how to make tulips last longer in a bouquet comes down to a few tried-and-true methods, according to our expert florists.
Here Are 5 Times to Skip the Chatbox and Call Your Credit Card Company

2 weeks ago | money.usnews.com | Dawn Papandrea |Ray Frager |Emily Hayes

Even with apps and online account services, calling the number on the back of your credit card makes sense in some situations. Human representatives may have more discretion to waive late fees, lower APRs or handle other special requests. Serious issues like account errors, potential fraud or financial hardship always warrant a call.
You Can Get a Free Night Just by Using These 5 Hotel Credit Cards

2 weeks ago | money.usnews.com | Lee Huffman |Ray Frager |Emily Hayes

Some of the links on this site contain offers from our partners. The offers in this article may be expired or currently unavailable. Some free nights can be used at any property, while others are capped at certain levels. Depending on your annual spending, you may be able to earn additional free nights. Based on how you redeem your free night, it might justify the annual fee. Frequent travelers can benefit from a co-branded credit card with their favorite hotel brand.
When to Plant Onions Based on Your Region, Variety, and Climate

2 weeks ago | marthastewart.com | Emily Hayes

Onions can be a great vegetable for backyard and container gardens. They take up minimal space, and are relatively forgiving for beginners; plus, they attract few pests. They also make excellent companion plants for a variety of herbs and veggies. However, choosing the right onion variety and knowing when to plant them can be a confusing process to navigate.
6 Pruning Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Garden, According to Horticulturists

2 weeks ago | marthastewart.com | Emily Hayes

Photo: AlexRaths / Getty Images Pruning is an integral part of growing healthy plants. However, pruning mistakes can be very detrimental, introducing shock or infection to an otherwise thriving shrub, tree, or flower. If done correctly, pruning can remove dead and diseased portions of a plant, preventing infection and keeping it in ideal shape. This practice can also improve a plant's exposure to sunlight and help increase air circulation, improving overall health.
The Best Time to Plant Strawberries for a Bountiful Harvest, According to Gardening Experts

2 weeks ago | marthastewart.com | Emily Hayes

Photo: Getty / Alter_photo Strawberries are perennial plants and will reliably bear fruit for many seasons—when they're planted properly. These fruits require specific care in order to thrive, and that starts with perfect planting. Timing, in particular, can be a major factor when it comes to starting these delicious fruits in your home garden. Here, we spoke to experts about the best time to plant strawberries, along with some best practices for a bountiful harvest.
How to Get Rid of Gnats Outside, According to Pest Control Experts

3 weeks ago | marthastewart.com | Emily Hayes

Photo: 3DFOX / Getty Images Nothing can interrupt an outdoor party quite like a swarm of gnats. Not to be confused with fruit flies or mosquitos, these tiny flying insects have slender bodies, long legs, and wings that frequently form a Y-shape on their back—and they can be pesky party crashers. If you need to know how to get rid of gnats outside ASAP, we're here to help. In outdoor pest control, it's best to act fast.
Looking for a Large Welcome Bonus? Here's the Top Credit Cards with 100K or Higher

3 weeks ago | money.usnews.com | Lee Huffman |Emily Hayes |Ray Frager

Key Takeaways Many welcome bonuses limit how frequently you can earn them, so it pays to focus on larger rewards. The value of miles and points vary, so focus on the total value rather than the number of points you can earn. Before applying, make sure you can meet the minimum spending requirement without busting your budget or going into debt. Earning a welcome bonus on a new credit card is one of the best ways to supersize your rewards account.
How to Make a Daffodil Bouquet Last Longer

3 weeks ago | marthastewart.com | Emily Hayes

Photo: MaskaRad / Getty Images It’s no wonder they share a botanical name with the Greek god who fell in love with his own shadow. Daffodils (also known as narcissi) are a beloved springtime bloom, attracting flocks of tourists to botanical gardens around the world, and are featured heavily in some of our favorite seasonal bouquets.