By Michael Miller, founder and CEO of Hound Dog Products

(ARA) - In my book, groundskeeping is the most enjoyable part of owning a home and ranges from puttering in your yard to heavy duty projects. The ideal of owning your own home has long been a cornerstone of the American dream. Caring for the “grounds” around your home has always been a vital part of Americana as well. With the right tools and an easy-going mindset, it can really be fun to work in the yard -- to take care of your grounds.

Q: How can homeowners overcome feeling overwhelmed by yard and garden maintenance?

A: Remember the end result of your labors -- the good feeling a beautiful yard and garden gives you. Cut yard maintenance down to size by breaking it down into 15-minute tasks. Enjoy the process. The whole family can help with yard work, which makes it more fun and easier for everyone.

Q: What’s the worst yard and garden job?

A: Most people would say weeding, which can be a time-consuming, back-breaking job. There are tools, such as the Weed Hound, our long-handled weed-puller, that can make weeding a breeze. I’ve pulled 100 weeds in 15 minutes with this tool.

Q: Why not just use chemicals?

A: A lot of folks I talk to really don’t want more chemicals in their lives. And if you have pets or kids, chemicals are potentially dangerous -- not to mention expensive. If you use the right tools, weeding can even be fun. Plus, you’d miss the hands-on experience of working outside to make your yard more beautiful.

Q: What’s your goal as “Groundskeeping Guru”?

A: I want people to want to spend more time in their yards. It should be fun to work in the yard -- not just the results should be pleasing, but the work should be enjoyable.

Q: What are the latest trends in home groundskeeping?

A: Organic gardening and earth-friendly products are growing in popularity. Tools that are easy to use and don’t put a strain on your back, such as Hound Dog’s patented long-handled tools are in demand. Another trend is creating outdoor “rooms” by adding more comfortable seating and design details to the backyard. I like to look at the yard as an outdoor family room.

Q: Any advice for homeowners who want to feel more like groundskeepers?

A: Plan early for spring yard work -- or yard play, as I like to call it. Cut the job down to size by making your list of 15-minute tasks. Try to get everyone in the family involved and have fun while you’re making your yard beautiful. Use the proper tools and try to minimize the use of chemicals. And don’t forget to spend some quality leisure time in your yard, too.

For more information about Hound Dog Products visit www.hound-dog.com or call 800-694-6863.

Courtesy of ARA Content