There's a lot of uncertainty at this point in the season about when, exactly, to dig up potatoes. The usual markers of maturity like size, color or scent aren't relevant with the potato. You don't want to dig them up too early or you'll get a measly crop. Too late and you risk having them sprout, rot or get frost damage. The best clue on when to start digging comes from the leaves of the above-ground portion of the potato plant. Stop watering when at least half the leaves have yellowed. This will typically occur 60 to 120 days from planting, depending on potato variety and weather. About two weeks later the potatoes should be ready to harvest.

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There's a lot of uncertainty at this point in the season about when, exactly, to dig up potatoes. Here's what gardeners need to know.

You started seeds in spring and watched as they sprouted. You watered, fertilized and even staked plants as they grew. Visions of summer salads, grilled vegetables and homemade pickles danced in your head. Then one day, black blotches, yellow-spotted leaves and mushy bottoms showed up. Many home gardeners lovingly tend their plants only to find them ravaged by unknown forces before harvest time. AP gardening writer Jessica Damiano says you first must identify which ailment is affecting your plants. Check seed packets for information on pest and disease resistance. In some cases you'll want to change how you water or prepare the soil. In other cases you might apply a fungicide or insecticide or — with slugs — some beer or salt.

Have you heard the old saying, “You don’t know what you don’t know”? It’s an axiom homeowners should always keep in mind when thinking about the mechanical and structural systems hidden behind the plaster or drywall of their homes — especially the plumbing drain and vent system.

Even here, in the scorching summer heat of Altadena, Calif., Seriina Covarrubias’ front yard feels cool and inviting under the dappled shade o…

Birds in the garden provide lovely song and a unique connection to nature. They also help both plants and people by reducing the number of pests in your yard, from aphids to stinkbugs. You can attract more birds by creating better habitat. That includes planting native plants, which attract native insects. Select a mix of plants to provide birds with berries, nectar and seeds year-round. The Audubon Society has a database that tells you which bird-friendly plants are native to your region. Let the dried stalks stand over winter so the birds can feed on the seed heads. Keep leaf litter under shrubs and trees instead of putting it out on the street. And consider getting a bird feeder and bird bath. Provide water and avoid chemical insecticides.

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If your yard is tiny, or even just a balcony, Jordan Karambelas has a suggestion for growing food organically: a good-looking aquaponics syste…