Pauline Butterfield

Have you ever brought home a new plant, set it in the perfect spot, and then waited… and waited… for it to actually do something? …

My landscaping journey took an unexpected turn last spring when my neighbor’s beautiful tree caused my dog to become violently ill after chewing on fallen …

Fuchsias are some of the most stunning plants in my garden, but I’ve learned they won’t put on a good show without the right feeding …

Getting orchids to thrive shouldn’t feel like solving a mystery. These stunning flowers have a reputation for being fussy, but with the right approach, they …

Butterflies see colors differently than we do, with their vision extending into the ultraviolet spectrum. Their color preferences aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re about survival and …

Hiking through America’s national parks offers breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences, but some green residents along those trails can turn your adventure into a painful …

Looking to add a touch of elegance to your compact living space? Silver-leaved plants bring a magical moonlit glow to any corner, creating a sophisticated …

Garden enthusiasts know that the right plant pairings can make all the difference between a so-so garden and one that truly dazzles. Summer phlox, with …

Growing a stunning display of colorful zinnias only to watch them topple over just as they reach their prime is one of gardening’s most heartbreaking …

Growing your own fresh produce can be incredibly rewarding, but few things are more disappointing than watching fruits rot right before harvest time. After weeks …

Standing in the garden center in late May, you might think you’ve missed the window for planting annuals this year. I’ve definitely been there—staring at …

If you’ve ever walked out to admire your rhubarb patch and spotted a tall flowering stalk shooting up—don’t panic, but take action. I’ve learned the …

Hydrangeas have captivated gardeners for generations with their showstopping blooms and remarkable versatility. These flowering shrubs grace gardens worldwide, yet harbor numerous secrets beneath their …

When summer temperatures climb, your home can quickly become uncomfortably warm, even with air conditioning running overtime. Most people don’t realize that certain houseplants can …

Gardening often brings unexpected lessons about beauty and resilience. Those gorgeous blooms catching your eye at the garden center might disappear from your landscape faster …

Camellias are stunning flowering shrubs that can transform your garden with their glossy leaves and gorgeous blooms. I’ve learned through years of trial and error …

I learned the hard way that irises aren’t as carefree as they first appear. After watching several clumps struggle in my backyard, I realized these …

Growing peppers can be a rewarding experience, but certain plant neighbors can sabotage your success. The right growing companions make all the difference between stunted, …

Cottagecore gardens always remind me of old storybooks—those cozy scenes with flowers spilling over stone paths and bees lazily buzzing about. There’s something comforting about …

Spring always feels like a fresh start, and it’s the best time to give your garden and lawn a little extra love. I’ve found that …

Gardening advice tends to come with a lot of “shoulds” and “musts,” but over the years, I’ve learned that bending the rules can actually lead …

Beets are one of those underrated garden heroes that deserve way more love than they get. They’re easy to grow, come in beautiful colors, and …

Summer gardens are all about plants that can handle the heat and still keep going. You want your garden to stay bright and lively, even …

Growing your own lettuce is such a satisfying part of gardening—there’s nothing like stepping outside and picking your own fresh greens. But I’ve learned the …

Finding flowers that actually bloom in the shade can feel like searching for a unicorn—I can’t tell you how many times I’ve planted something hopeful, …

Starting a garden can feel a little overwhelming—especially if you’re working with a tight budget or zero experience. I’ve been there, staring at seed packets …

Using rocks and mulch in the front yard sounds like an easy win—I thought so too when I first tried to cut down on mowing …

Growing potatoes can be so satisfying—there’s nothing like digging up a basket of fresh spuds from your own garden. But I’ve learned the hard way …

A green lawn might look effortless—but behind every healthy yard is someone who’s figured out what not to do. And if you’ve been wondering why …

Midges might be tiny, but wow—can they ruin a perfectly good evening outside. Whether you’re trying to enjoy a peaceful cup of tea on the …

If you’ve ever found yourself watering your garden constantly, only to see the soil dry out again in no time, you’re not alone. Keeping soil …

Bringing a little greenery into your home can completely change the mood of a space—especially when it’s right there on your windowsill, soaking up the …

Gardening enthusiasts often find themselves looking for creative ways to enhance their raised beds without resorting to traditional soil. Whether you’re aiming to improve drainage, …

Carrots aren’t just orange anymore—and once you start growing your own, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for just one color! They come in a …

Ah yes, those tiny green sprouts full of promise… until one day, they’re slumped over like they’ve given up on life. If you’ve been there—staring …

Gardening is one of those hobbies that’s as fulfilling as it is therapeutic—but let’s be honest, getting seedlings to grow strong and healthy can feel …

Playing with the color of hydrangeas feels a bit like magic, but it’s actually all about science—and the best part is, you don’t need to …

May always feels like a fresh start in the garden, doesn’t it? The soil has finally warmed up, the days are getting longer, and everything …

If you love digging in the dirt as much as I do, you’ve probably wondered at some point—how healthy is my soil, really? The truth …

Cutting zinnias at just the right moment is one of those little gardening skills that makes a big impact—especially if you love bringing fresh flowers …