A tree can be a great investment to provide shade for your yard. But you need to do your research in advance, or the reality of owning a tree may not line up with what you expected or needed. If you're considering adding trees to your yard for their shade value, you need to look at the decision from all angles before making any purchases. Here are five steps to help you decide if shade trees are right for you and your yard.

Once winter is over, there are a few backyard cleaning tasks you need to do in order to prepare for the summer. Here's what homeowners should plan to do on the earliest clear, warm day to ensure their yards are prepared for the spring season.