Lauren Krystaf
Location
Buffalo Niagara Region
School
SUNY Buffalo, Drexel University
Expertise
Sustainable Gardening, Edimentals, Urban Permaculture
- Lauren loves gardening's mix of beauty and utility, and she believes everyone can have a green thumb.
- She grows flowers, vegetables, and fruit trees, all on a 1/8 acre city lot.
- Lauren currently gardens in USDA zone 6, but has previously lived and gardened in zones 8, 10, and 13.
Experience
As a news writer for House Digest, Lauren has written on a range of topics, including seed-starting strategies, gardening techniques, and houseplant care. She had so much fun researching and writing about companion plants for the article "Deter Insects Naturally With This Fast-Growing Garden Classic" that she decided to grow nasturtiums herself this year. Lauren has been writing professionally for over five years and has written for sites including Collider Media, Backyard Boss, and Haddee Education. She is fascinated by the symbiotic relationship between humans and plants and has never met a succulent she doesn't love.
Education
Lauren has a bachelor's degree in anthropology from SUNY Buffalo and a master's in library and information science from Drexel University.
House Digest uses a knowledgeable team of editors, writers, and experts to create all our content. We dive deep into the always-evolving conversations surrounding design and home trends, striving to deliver the most current and helpful tips, strengthened by expert takes and tutorials from our talented team.
As we cover many fields of expertise, we make it a priority to ensure every beat remains fresh and comprehensive. Additional information on our editorial process available here.
Stories By Lauren Krystaf
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If you're looking for unique florals, there is one rose variety you shouldn't overlook. Learn about this delectable rose and why it belongs in your garden.
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There are two main types of chamomile: Roman and German. But when deciding which one you want to use for your own garden, consider these factors first.
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Everyone loves the scent of flowers in bloom, but these particular blossoms smell like they're straight out of Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory.
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With the summer season around the corner, you may want to grow watermelon at home. Here are tips for successfully growing some in colder areas.
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Want more blooms in your garden? Consider planting diascia, also known as twinspur. These flowers can blossom from spring to fall for even more seasonal beauty.
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If you're worried about deer munching on your grass, consider this alternative ground cover that does pretty well in colder temperatures.
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Here's the ingredient that can trigger the growth of pesky crabgrass. Learn how this can affect your lawn and ways to prevent the spread of crabgrass.
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Plant this colorful tree to effortlessly attract beautiful hummingbirds while enhancing your yard's appeal. Here's everything you need to know.
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Beans benefit plants growing nearby, as they are nitrogen fixers. Zucchini's leaves help to shade out weed seedlings, providing less competition for the beans.
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Cicadas are about to take over certain areas of the country, so it's understandable if you are concerned about potential harms. Here's what you can expect.
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As a homeowner, keeping your grass healthy is tough. If you struggle with traditional lawns, consider the value of mixed lawns to determine if they suit you.
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Do you like to spend time outside in your garden, perhaps reading or entertaining guests? Learn how to create a cozy outdoor nook in just a few steps.
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Spring is here, so it's time to get planting! And if you're looking for a new superstar in your garden, Pinterest has the perfect suggestion.
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If you're dreaming of birch trees, be sure to plant those beauties in the right spot for optimal growth and as long of a life as possible. Here's how.
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If wasps are taking over your yard and garden, there's an effective way to help repel them. All you have to do is grow this common plant before you get stung!
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Home gardeners have been using plastic seed trays for years, but TikTok users are now asking you to avoid them and start your seeds in soil blocks instead.
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While bearded irises on their own will provide your garden with a unique look, consider planting these popular blooms near them for an extra stunning display.
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While most houseplants are solid green, there are also some types with unique features. Discover the polka-dotted plant you could add to your collection.
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Hummingbirds flitting around your yard is a sure sign you've planted some excellent plants for pollinators. Here's one flower you should include in your garden.
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If you're new to gardening and want to grow a low-maintenance plant that will provide lots of produce, discover the vegetable Pinterest recommends planting.
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If you need to rearrange your tulips, springtime is the best season to do it, and these are the best techniques to ensure your flowers continue to bloom.
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If you're growing citrus trees for your garden, be sure to plant a specific type of flower nearby to protect them from various pests and diseases.
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Many backyards have this beloved feature, but it could actually be a magnet for mosquitos, mice, termites, and other unwanted pests. Here's how to prevent that!
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Hummingbirds are a delightful addition to any garden, but if your flowers aren't drawing them to your yard, this is probably why.
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It's always disappointing when your houseplant dies. Some plants are difficult to care for, even when you try your best. Here's a tricky that you should avoid.
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Growing pepper plants is fairly easy, but you may not know when you should add fertilizer. Here's how you know that it's time to fertilize your seedlings.
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Using grass seed to grow a lush, green lawn can be challenging. Luckily, one TikTok user has shared a simple and effective method to start your lawn.