Imagine vibrant hydrangea blooms bursting with vivid colors and lush foliage, all thanks to an unexpected and surprising ingredient – pickle juice! Although hydrangeas can generally thrive in poor growing conditions, adding certain fertilizers can significantly improve their growth and boost flower production. One such fertilizer is pickle juice. Pickle juice is one of those…
When we think of a rose, perhaps its fragrance takes us to the 50s or to the Queen Mary’s Garden in London. But it certainly doesn’t have us thinking about roses as invasive species. And yet, that’s exactly what Rosa rugosa (beach or Japanese rose) is to Maine. It originated in Asia but spread all…
Attracting birds and pollinators, hummingbirds in particular, is one of the great joys of gardening. These little guys look adorable when frantically fluttering their wings and eating their share of the nectar you’ve left for them. It is fairly easy to make their food on your own; dissolve a quarter of a cup of sugar…
Are you dreaming of a vibrant, envy-worthy lawn that boasts a rich, dark green color? Look no further, as we are about to reveal the essential ingredient that can transform your grass in no time! We are talking about a liquid iron that can quickly and effectively turn your lawn dark green. Not only does…
African violets adorn many windowsills all over the world. And the reason for that is their undemanding care. However, there are a couple of things that we need to take into consideration before getting this tiny gem. And one of them is soil. Getting the right growing medium is crucial if you want to give…
Daylilies are one of those flowers that don’t need too much care in order to show you how much they appreciate it. But did you ever have to deal with their slow growth, lack of blossoms, and clustered leaves only to give up on them? You’ll be glad to hear that these signs usually indicate…
Did you know that you’re missing out on an even cheaper way to propagate petunias? And I’m not talking about seeds! You can multiply your own petunias by growing them from cuttings, get the exact same plants faster and for free, and use them for gorgeous garden displays. Let’s compare this propagation method with the…
Unfortunately, not every one of us has a green thumb, and it may be pretty disheartening seeing your friend’s collection full of lush, green, and healthy plants if yours don’t look so good! Well, plants like attention and if your first plant has high care requirements, the possibility you won’t keep it alive is pretty…
The quality of indoor air has been a topic of numerous discussions lately. We’ve been provided with multiple studies on the subject and some date back to the last century. Indoor air contains harmful substances that pose a threat to our overall health, which is why we must do anything to decrease their concentration. In…
It is always a good idea to grow native plants as they can naturally grow and don’t require much maintenance. Luckily for Kansas folks, there are a lot of beautiful native wildflowers that make the garden colorful and vibrant! These plants have evolved to thrive in these unique climates and soil conditions, so you don’t…
If you have potted plants, then you know how important drainage is. Without it, our plants would rot in no time! Many gardeners have been promoting various techniques of improving drainage, including adding rocks to the bottom of planters. However, they are moving away from this technique because it has more drawbacks than benefits. It…
Overwatering frightens beginner gardeners all around the world. So if you thought that you were the only one dealing with this issue, trust me, you’re not! The problem is actually very common and there are many factors that lead to it. It’s not really about adding too much water to a plant at once, like…
Including a couple of hanging baskets brimming with flowers into your landscape can do a lot for it. But not when they’re not flowering! And did you know that there are a couple of simple tricks you can use to have them flourishing all summer long? Let’s check them out! 1. Careful Positioning Whether you…
Is there anything prettier than a garden full of dahlia blossoms? Due to their extraordinary beauty, dahlias have become a part of almost every bridal bouquet nowadays. Their fluffy flowers come in different forms and the only color you won’t find in dahlia blossoms is blue. They can be about 10 inches in diameter and…
Succulents are known for being hardy plants that can thrive in poor growing conditions, but did you know that there are some succulents that can also produce oxygen at night? While most plants release oxygen during the day through photosynthesis, these special succulents continue to produce oxygen even after the sun goes down. This is…
Peace lilies are one of the prevailing houseplants. They can handle lower light conditions quite well, thrive in humid environments, and aren’t that fussy. However, if you want them to produce their gorgeous flowers, you will have to pay attention to them. I say flowers, but the white part is actually a modified leaf protecting…
Jackie Flournoy was looking out of her window one May morning in Luthersville, Ga. when she noticed she had a 25-foot flower stalk in her front yard. I always thought nobody else has this but me, said Jackie when asked about her agave plant. She planted it in 1987 and never in her wildest dreams…
When I visited England, there was one thing in their countryside that baffled me. There seemed to be one rose variety that spread from village to village, and every single person seemed to have the same variety in their garden. Why is this the case? Is it because these roses have a particularly sweet scent…
If you want to make the most out of your sunflowers, then you should definitely consider companion planting. By strategically choosing companion plants for sunflowers, you can enhance their growth, attract beneficial insects, and create a healthy garden ecosystem! These tall and vibrant sunflowers not only bring a burst of sunshine to the garden, but…
I know many beginner gardeners opt for aloe plants due to their low-maintenance, but did you know that you’re likely not growing them correctly? Or rather, there are a couple of tricks you can implement to have the best-looking aloe plant possible. Here are some of the basics every aloe owner should know in order…
Pools make an excellent addition to backyards just like plants, so why not use the opportunity to combine them for great results? You have many options to choose from; you can go with plants with colorful foliage or uncommon blossom shapes, or add trees and shrubs. Surrounding pools with plants may have other benefits such…
Peonies are renowned for not only their appearance but also their low care requirements. Changing spots isn’t the essential thing in peony care, which is not the case with common garden perennials. However, there are some cases when it’s not a good idea to skip transplanting peonies. This is mainly related to light exposure and…
If I had to choose one thing I hate about summer, it would be all the flies. I guess that’s the only thing. These nuisances somehow enter our households and definitely won’t go away on their own. Yellow fly traps aren’t my thing so I’m constantly looking for new ways for deterring these annoying creatures….
When you grow heat tolerant perennials, you don’t have to worry about the scorching summer sun destroying the plants in your garden. That’s right, heat tolerant perennials are the answer to creating a colorful and vibrant garden that can endure even the hottest summer days! These hardy plants originate from hot and dry regions, so…
Interest in gardening has skyrocketed in the years following lockdown. And what better place to start than your own home? Indoor gardening has found its way into our daily lives. Many of my friends who thought it was impossible to fit plant care into their hectic lifestyles now have indoor jungles of their own. But…
I know we’re all used to seeing hydrangeas in the ground. And don’t get me wrong, they look stunning in flower beds. But did you know that you can take this beauty and move it onto your porch or even indoors? Yes, you can grow hydrangeas in pots and it’s easier than you’d think. Let’s…
Mesmerizing-blue blossoms, the ability to rebloom, excellent cold tolerance, and a compact growing habit – this hydrangea has it all. The Pop Star hydrangea is a novel addition to the Endless Summer collection introduced by Bailey nurseries. (1) It’s been selling out quickly and a part of the reason for its popularity is its incredibly…
Tomatoes rely on pollinators to transfer pollen between flowers. If you live in an area with a low pollinator population, then you have no other option but to master hand pollination techniques. By taking matters into your own hands, quite literally, you can ensure efficient and effective pollination, leading to healthier and more robust tomato…
What makes lavender so special?! Is it the scent, its appearance, the fact that it attracts pollinators or everything combined? These breathtaking plants are the true stars of the show in gardens worldwide. If you decide on growing this spectacular herb, you should know that spacing plays a major role in its development. Providing enough…
Our edible gardens are filled with peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, and eggplants, but did you know that you can use edible flowers in recipes, too? Rose cocktails, pansy deserts, and salads garnished with flowers are just a few recipes that utilize this unique ingredient. Aside from being responsible for incredible presentation, edible flowers also add an…
Do you like coffee and growing plants? I’m sure you’ve heard that you can use coffee grounds in plants, but I have to warn you that there’s more to it than meets the eye. A few questions should be answered regarding the benefits of coffee grounds, the application steps, and which plants to use them…
I know that it is completely devastating when you spot yellow leaves on your new plants. It can be concerning to see this change in color, as it often indicates that something is not quite right. Yellow leaves can mean a lot of things, such as nutrient deficiency, pest infestations, or inadequate watering. It is…
Who would have thought that this fragrant and flavorful condiment could be used in the garden? Certainly not me! Yet, here I am, writing about it! When you look further into it, you will find that cinnamon has antibacterial and antifungal properties. (1) Therefore, this spice may prevent rotting and help your plants root. Let’s…
Did you know that you don’t have to buy four different hydrangeas just to enjoy them in shades of pink, purple, red, and blue? You can change their color with certain products and admire their round blossoms. It is the pH level of the soil that determines their color, meaning you simply have to lower…
Peace lilies are tropical plants that are used to growing in moist and humid conditions. This is why proper watering is crucial for the health and vitality of peace lilies, especially when grown indoors. While these beautiful plants are relatively low-maintenance, knowing the best method for watering them can make all the difference in their…
If you are looking to grow beautiful plants indoors without the hassle of traditional soil-based gardening, then you have come to the right place! Even though it might seem like every plant requires soil for proper growth; spider plants, philodendrons, pothoses, and many others can actually grow in water perfectly fine. Not only does this…
The gardening world is full of surprises and just when you think you’ve seen it all, something new and unusual pops up. For me, the Pickle plant was one of the biggest surprises. No, it’s not a type of gherkin and definitely doesn’t taste like it; it’s actually a houseplant with many excellent features. Let’s…
Did you know that many plants don’t reach their full potential because they get fertilized inadequately? Too much or not enough fertilizer will leave your houseplants struggling. Not all plants require additional nutrients, but if you want their growth rate to skyrocket, adding some pellets or fertilizer stakes to the soil should do the trick….
If your garden needs more colors or you want to define the space, border plants will do the job. But these aren’t the only powers of border plants; they also attract pollinators and beneficial insects, contributing to the garden ecosystem. There are various plant types to choose from, such as shrubs, perennials, and annuals. The…
Summer is just around the corner, so you may be thinking that your backyard could use some renovation. This is a fun project that excites homeowners. However, there’s much more to it than meets the eye. Some common missteps can turn the joy of renovation into a nightmare. To help you avoid this, I’ll show…
We’re well into the azalea season and it’s only natural we want to do everything in our power to make them beautiful. They’re not heavy feeders, but when you see them struggling, you shouldn’t disregard nutrient deficiencies as the cause. Luckily, a generous layer of compost or some other organic fertilizer is all it takes…
Many people describe chia seeds using only one word: superfood. Well, they do have a wide range of nutritional and health benefits, but did you know that each part of the chia plant has its own individual benefits and usages? And that’s exactly what I’ll show you in this article. Along with ways of using…
Gardeners adore the colorful foliage of coral bells, so it’s no wonder there are new varieties on the market every year. If you decide on growing these beauties, or already have some in your garden, there’s one excellent technique you should employ: companion planting. By using this method, you’ll be able to grow many plants…
Once the blossoming season of lilacs begins, it makes us want more and more of these gorgeous plants! A cost-effective and simple way to get more lilacs is by propagating them. You can choose between a few propagation methods including seed, cuttings, layering, and grafting. Whether you want to keep them for yourself or gift…
The aromatic scent and captivating blossoms of lavender have ensured this herb a spot in gardens worldwide. Another reason why growers adore lavender are its low care requirements, but it’s still important for beginner gardeners to know about lavender watering needs. In this article, I’ll answer the most common question: is lavender drought-tolerant? You’ll also…
The beauty and fragrance of lavender blossoms capture the hearts of people worldwide. This plant has been cultivated for centuries and is prized for its medicinal properties. The beginning of the lavender flowering season is just around the corner, so if you’ve been wondering how to harvest and use this plant, you’re in the right…
Calendula, otherwise known as Pot marigold, is a charming flowering plant that can be easily grown in the garden. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, calendula can also be used for culinary and medicinal purposes. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, growing calendula can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience! In this…
The enchanting aroma of cinnamon and its fantastic potential has been a well-kept secret among master gardeners for centuries. The superpowers of this fragrant spice can help you manage pests, enhance rooting, and much more. So, let’s see how a sprinkle of cinnamon can make your garden thrive! Pest Management There are many eco-friendly ways…
Few things can compare with a gardenia when it reveals its floral splendor! But anyone who grows this wonderful plant knows how temperamental it can be. It’s pretty fussy over growing conditions and it’s not uncommon for a gardenia to not produce flowers. If your gardenia isn’t blooming, there are a few possible causes all…
Enjoying life to the fullest in your backyard can be a bit difficult with nosy eyes locked on you every step of the way. Luckily, there’s a quick way to keep your neighbors’ gazes away from your yard – tall plants and privacy screens! Think of it as a way to improve your overall landscape…
Squirrels may be cute, but their appetite for destruction can ruin your plants! From stealing seeds to feasting on your harvest, these adorable furry creatures can quickly become a gardener’s nightmare. Luckily, there are effective ways to keep these critters at bay and protect your garden. The easiest way to deter squirrels is by growing…
If you want to add a special touch of beauty to your garden, I have the perfect plants for you! Climbing honeysuckle types will make an excellent addition to any design you have in mind. Their cascading, fragrant blossoms look spectacular in containers and flower beds, and can be used as focal points in landscapes. …
Welcome to the wonderful world of nasturtiums! It’s a beautiful flowering plant, so it’s not surprising that it’s found in gardens worldwide. Its splendid blossoms will transform your garden into a vibrant paradise often visited by pollinators, and best of all, pests won’t come near them! The main thing is learning how to grow nasturtiums….
Nothing compares to stunning garden displays during summer! The vibrant colors and fragrances of annuals make all growers want more of these plants in their gardens. Today I’ll show you 11 colorful annuals that will bloom nonstop and transform your garden into a never-ending tapestry of beauty. You’ll also learn the growing requirements of these…
If you are a gardener who likes drinking coffee, you should save some coffee grounds for your blueberry bushes! Coffee grounds improve soil acidity, enhance nutrient availability, and also increase organic matter – all of which can encourage blueberry bushes to grow and produce loads of delicious berries! In this article, we are going to…
Welcome to the world of butterfly gardening! Creating a butterfly garden is not only a delightful and colorful addition to your outdoor space, but also a way to support these lovely creatures, especially because they are important pollinators. With colorful butterflies flying from one flower to another, your garden will look like it came straight…
The clematis is one of the most popular plants because it provides privacy by climbing fences, poles, trellises, walls, and pillars. And its colorful and beautiful blossoms are a perfect focal point for your backyard. The best part of this flower is that you can grow it in pots if you don’t have enough space…