Join us to learn all the gardening tips in one place, from the best way to propagate the plants, improve the soil texture to growing plants together or on their own.
If your Christmas cactus stays stubbornly green in December, you’re probably not doing anything “wrong” with watering or soil at all. In most cases, the real troublemaker is something far more ordinary: light. Even small amounts of evening or nighttime brightness can completely shut down the plant’s bloom cycle. I learned this the hard way…
As fall winds down and winter approaches, Connecticut gardeners face an important transition period. Late fall is your last chance to prepare your garden for the cold months ahead and set the stage for a vibrant spring. Taking care of a few essential tasks now can protect your plants, improve your soil, and save you…
I used to wonder why my poinsettia gave up halfway through December, even though it looked perfect the day I brought it home. One year, after watching those bright red leaves droop almost overnight, I finally learned the simple trick I had been missing. It was not more light or more fertilizer but a small…
Florida’s warm weather makes Sweet Autumn Clematis grow like it has something to prove. I’ve seen it turn a regular fence into a sheet of soft white blooms almost overnight. Give it a bit of guidance and it stays lovely instead of overwhelming the yard. Florida gardeners know this vine can be a real showpiece…
Michigan frost hits fast, and I’ve learned that pots and planters feel it just as much as the plants inside them. A few simple tricks can keep them safe, sturdy, and ready to go again once spring rolls back around. It’s honestly such a relief when you don’t have to replace cracked containers every year….
Some Pennsylvania rooms sit in the dark as if light took a permanent vacation, yet a handful of tough plants still rise to the occasion. I’ve watched certain houseplants handle low-light corners without missing a beat, turning dim spaces into spots that feel alive. These dependable choices shrug off shadows, hold their own without fuss,…
Tomatoes can be dramatic plants, especially in Utah’s tricky growing conditions. I learned that lesson after one summer full of stunted vines and sad fruit. Certain spots just don’t work, no matter how much care you give them. Avoiding these problem areas makes the difference between frustration and a bumper crop. 1. Deep Shade Areas…
November is a key moment for Indiana gardeners to grab those pruning shears and prep for winter. A little effort now sets the stage for healthier, more vibrant plants come spring. Some shrubs and perennials benefit from a good trim before the cold sets in. It helps prevent disease, shapes growth, and gives your garden…
Walking into your grandmother’s Connecticut home might feel like stepping back in time. Those leafy green plants sitting quietly on windowsills and in corners could actually be rare treasures worth serious money today. Vintage houseplants have become incredibly popular with collectors, and some varieties can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars! 1. Monstera…
I used to scratch my head over my scrawny lavender bush, convinced it had a mind of its own. Then I tried one simple method that turned everything on its ear – a simple pruning and shaping trick! By the next season, that modest mound transformed into a full-blown showstopper that looked twice its former…
I once set a bright holiday arrangement on my coffee table, only to find my cat chewing on the leaves an hour later. The plant looked harmless, but it carried more risk than I realized. Many festive favorites bring cheer to a room, yet some can trouble curious pets who like to nibble or explore….
While some houseplants fold at the first hint of a chill, a few tough ones take cold rooms in stride. They stand firm through drafty windows, nighttime dips, and rooms that never quite warm up. These hardy plants keep their color, hold their shape, and stay alive without any extra pampering. For anyone living in…
Most homes in North Carolina have that awkward strip of land between the house and fence that often gets ignored. Side yards might seem too narrow or shaded to do much with, but they hold surprising potential. With a little creativity and planning, you can turn this forgotten space into something beautiful and useful that…
Skunks have a way of showing up right when you think the yard is finally peaceful again. I’ve tried a bunch of things over the years, but one simple scent kept giving me the best results every time. If you’re tired of surprise visits at night, this little trick might be the thing that finally…
I always hunt for Christmas gifts that hit the sweet spot: thoughtful, affordable, and not just another trinket collecting dust. Small plants fit the bill so well they practically jump into my cart. I’ve seen tiny succulents melt the hearts of “I-destroy-every-plant” friends and cheerful mini ferns brighten rooms faster than you can say holiday…
Last spring, I watched my mint plant practically explode with growth, and I thought, “Why am I not making more of these beauties?” Mint is one of those miracle herbs that practically begs you to share it with every corner of your garden. If you’re craving fresh mojitos all summer or just love the smell…
Georgia homeowners might soon face new rules about what they can grow in their yards. Some popular plants have become serious problems because they spread too fast and harm native wildlife. Understanding which plants could be banned helps you make smarter choices for your garden while protecting Georgia’s natural environment. 1. English Ivy Climbing walls…
I used to look at my fiddle leaf fig and wonder why it hit a standstill while others seemed to shoot upward. After trying advice that ran the gamut from helpful to downright confusing, I finally found a handful of simple steps that made all the difference. Light, airflow, pruning, and a smarter watering routine…
Tucked in quiet Nebraska homes, Grandma’s “just another plant” may hide a jackpot in plain sight. Some rare houseplants can turn heads and open wallets, proving that humble windowsills sometimes hold gold under folks’ noses. A few leafy treasures carry price tags that make jaws drop, and each one shows that old-fashioned charm can outshine…
November pushes Michigan gardens into their final cool-weather stretch, and small missteps now can create big problems once spring arrives. Plants enter dormancy, roots brace for freezing soil, and lingering debris invites pests and disease. A few common errors easily derail a healthy start to next year’s growth. 1. Leaving Diseased Plants Standing Too Long…
Clay soil in Georgia can feel like concrete when you try to dig, plant, or turn it over. Many gardeners hit that brick-hard layer and throw in the towel, but one natural fertilizer can turn the tide. Greensand slips into dense clay like a secret ingredient, easing the soil apart and giving roots room to…
Looking for a groundcover that can handle foot traffic and still keep your Washington yard looking great? Creeping thyme might be just the thing. This low-growing herb forms a fragrant, soft carpet that stays green most of the year. In fact, it thrives under light pressure—getting even better when you walk on it. I’ve found…
Fall cleanup in Colorado often leaves gardeners staring at tubs of old potting soil, unsure what to do. Tossing it feels wasteful—but keeping it could mean trouble when spring rolls around. Used soil might carry pests, diseases, or just lack the nutrients your plants need to thrive. But with a little know-how, you can refresh…
Louisiana gardeners love their fall mums, but it’s easy to get caught up in color and forget the details that matter. I’ve made a few of these mistakes myself—like picking ones that looked full in the store but barely lasted a week at home. The trick is knowing what signs to look for before you…
Wisconsin gardeners know that bare spots in a yard can stick out like sore thumbs. I’ve tried quick fixes before, but the real trick is finding plants that spread fast and fill gaps naturally. These ground covers don’t just grow—they take over with color, texture, and life. Once they settle in, those once-barren patches turn…
Bare patches can make New Jersey lawns and gardens look tired, but the right ground covers quickly turn them around. These low-growing plants stop erosion, crowd out weeds, and add color where grass struggles to grow. A smart mix of tough, spreading varieties restores life to empty spaces fast. 1. Creeping Thyme Walking across this…
November is the ideal time for Minnesota gardeners to get their landscapes winter-ready. As the cold sets in, a little prep now can lead to a healthier, more vibrant garden come spring. Pruning certain plants before the deep freeze helps them survive harsh temperatures and bounce back stronger. It’s a simple step that sets the…
Building a food forest in New York starts earlier than most people expect. I’ve started seeds indoors in November and loved how ready they were by spring. The right varieties handle indoor beginnings beautifully. Starting now sets you up for a lush, productive season once warm weather returns. 1. Alpine Strawberries Imagine biting into tiny,…
Michigan gardeners have a secret to keeping favorite plants going strong year after year—cuttings. I started taking mine indoors a few seasons ago, and now I never lose a single variety. It’s a fun, budget-friendly trick that makes the garden feel full even in winter. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to keep…
Arizona gardens are beautiful, but some popular plants are causing serious problems for our desert ecosystem. Certain species spread aggressively, choking out native plants and using precious water resources. State officials are considering banning several invasive plants to protect Arizona’s unique environment and wildlife habitats. 1. Fountain Grass With its flowing purple plumes swaying in…
November marks a crucial time for New Mexico gardeners to grab their pruning shears and get to work. As temperatures drop and plants prepare for winter dormancy, proper pruning helps them survive the cold months ahead and emerge stronger in spring. Knowing which plants need attention now can make all the difference between a thriving…
Wyoming’s beautiful neighborhoods face a hidden threat that many homeowners don’t even realize. Certain plants spreading through suburban yards might look harmless, but they’re actually crowding out native species and damaging local ecosystems. State officials are now considering bans on these troublesome invaders to protect Wyoming’s natural landscape and keep neighborhoods healthy for generations to…
November in Utah brings crisp air, bare branches, and a clear signal that some plants need a careful trim before deep winter sets in. A handful of garden favorites start showing tired growth, crowded stems, or worn-out canes that call for a smart cutback. Tending to them now protects your landscape from winter damage and…
November in North Carolina brings a chill that signals more than just the end of the growing season. It’s the perfect moment to give certain plants a little tough love so they can bounce back stronger in spring. A well-timed trim now can tidy up tired growth, prevent winter damage, and set the stage for…
November puts Missouri gardens at a crossroads, as chilly mornings and early sunsets signal the shift toward winter. A few smart moves now can keep your yard from falling behind the curve and set the stage for a strong comeback once spring rolls in. Leaves pile up, soil settles, and plants start to wind down,…
Washington gardens don’t have to look dull when summer fades away. Fall brings cooler temperatures and shorter days, but that doesn’t mean your outdoor space can’t stay colorful and vibrant. With the right plants, your garden can actually thrive during autumn, offering beautiful blooms, interesting textures, and fresh greenery that make your yard the envy…
Your grandmother’s cozy Alabama home might be hiding more than just family memories and sweet tea recipes. Those leafy plants sitting quietly on her windowsills and tucked into corners could actually be worth serious money. Rare houseplants have become incredibly valuable to collectors, and some of grandma’s green friends might just pay for a dream…
The first frost in Vermont signals more than the start of winter chill for hydrangeas—it marks the moment they need a crucial layer of protection. Cold snaps arrive fast, and exposed roots face harsh conditions that can stunt next year’s blooms. A simple step at this point shields the plant, locks in warmth, and keeps…
Fall in Washington means beautiful trees turning gold and red, but it also means piles of leaves covering your yard. Raking can feel like endless work, especially when the wind keeps blowing more leaves onto your freshly cleared lawn. With the right approach and a few smart tricks, you can turn this dreaded chore into…
Lavender plants bring beautiful purple blooms and wonderful fragrance to Washington gardens, but they need special care to stay healthy year after year. November is actually a tricky time for pruning these Mediterranean plants in our Pacific Northwest climate. Understanding the right techniques will help your lavender survive winter and come back stronger next spring,…
Tomatoes can be dramatic in Connecticut gardens and absolutely refuse to thrive in the wrong place. I’ve planted them in a few unlucky spots before and learned the lesson quickly. They’re picky about light, soil, and airflow. Steering clear of the worst locations gives you a much better harvest. 1. Under Large Shade Trees Tomato…
November in Tennessee may bring a pause outdoors, but it often highlights which houseplants need a little attention inside. Not every plant demands a new pot this month, yet several popular varieties start showing clear signs that their roots need more space, fresher soil, or better drainage. When pots overflow, soil compacts, or growth slows…
Minnesota gardens need a little trimming before winter freezes everything in place. I cut back my plants last November and loved how much cleaner the yard looked afterward. Some species bounce back better when trimmed early. A little effort now sets the stage for healthier growth later on. 1. Hostas Once frost turns hosta leaves…
Some plants may look harmless in the nursery aisle, but in Oregon suburbs they can cause more trouble than they’re worth. A handful of invasive favorites spread fast, choke out native growth, and can even land you with a fine if you plant or ignore them. They might seem pretty on the surface, but they…
Grass can be a tough act to maintain in Florida’s heat, but some ground covers are more than ready to step into the spotlight. These hardy spreaders stay lush when lawns struggle, shrug off blazing sun, and turn bare soil into a thick green carpet before you know it. With the right choices, your yard…
Winter is coming to North Carolina, and that first frost can sneak up on you faster than you think. Your beautiful patio furniture, plants, and outdoor decorations need protection from the freezing temperatures that can cause serious damage. Taking a few smart steps now will save you money and headaches when spring arrives. 1. Bring…
November in Oregon might feel quiet in the garden, but it’s a prime moment to give certain plants a smart seasonal trim. As growth slows and leaves drop, some shrubs and perennials are ready for a clean cut that sets them up for stronger, healthier days ahead. A few snips now can prevent trouble later,…
Bare spots have a way of sticking out like a sore thumb in South Carolina gardens, but the right ground covers can turn those trouble spots around in no time. Some plants are natural go-getters, racing across the soil and stitching together empty patches before weeds even think about moving in. With a few fast…
Want to see more chickadees visiting your California backyard? Black oil sunflower seeds might be exactly what you need. These small, dark seeds are like a magnet for these adorable little birds, and they offer benefits that go way beyond just attracting chickadees. Once you understand why these seeds work so well, you’ll wonder why…
Georgia’s chilly nights can be rough on citrus trees if you don’t prep them early. I learned the hard way that a little extra care in November makes all the difference. These trees stay stronger when given the right protection before winter rolls in. A few simple steps now help them bounce back beautifully in…
Shoppers across South Carolina often scoop up fall mums with high hopes, only to watch those bright blooms fizzle out before the season hits its stride. A gorgeous display can turn into a guessing game if a few common slip-ups creep in. With a little know-how, those mums can go from short-lived impulse buys to…
Milkweed is making waves across Texas this season, turning quiet yards into buzzing butterfly hangouts almost overnight. This hardy native plant packs a punch, offering the perfect pit stop for hungry caterpillars and colorful wings on the move. Many homeowners are finding that a single patch can bring a yard back to life, filling the…
November in Pennsylvania brings crisp air and shorter days, signaling the garden’s transition into winter rest. While it might seem like time to hang up your gardening gloves, there’s actually plenty to do to prepare your outdoor space for the cold months ahead. Taking care of these tasks now will help your garden bounce back…
Florida garden centers offer color in every direction, and it’s tempting to grab whatever looks healthy in the moment. Yet not every plant on display is suited for the state’s sun, rain patterns, soil, or humidity. A pot that looks perfect on the shelf may struggle once it reaches the patio. The trick is spotting…
Christmas cacti bring stunning blooms to Texas homes during the holiday season, but many gardeners accidentally harm these tropical plants by treating them like desert cacti. Understanding the unique needs of Christmas cacti is essential for keeping them healthy and encouraging those beautiful flowers year after year. Texas climate and common misconceptions can lead to…
November brings a welcome break from Florida’s heat, and with it, a fresh start for your garden. Cooler temps make it the perfect time to get outside and tidy things up. Pruning now helps your plants stay strong through winter and bounce back beautifully in spring. A few smart cuts can shape healthier growth and…
November in Washington brings chilly temperatures and shorter days, signaling plants to prepare for winter dormancy. Pruning at the wrong time can expose tender growth to frost damage or encourage new shoots that won’t survive the cold. Understanding which plants to leave alone this month protects your garden and ensures healthy spring growth when warmer…