Organic materials like mulch and bark are often used in gardening and landscaping. To cover the ground, mulch and bark both work, but there are some clear differences between the two. Knowing when to use each can help you get the most out of your garden’s health, look, and use. Defining Mulch Mulch refers to … Read more
Ferns are pretty plants that can give gardens and landscapes a natural look and an air of grace. And what about sunlight? How much do ferns really need? Can they do well in full sun or do they need shade? The answer depends on the type of fern. Some ferns do better in full shade, … Read more
Because I love strawberries and garden a lot, I was excited to start growing my own patch of juicy, sweet strawberries. But I quickly learned that it took more care and planning than I thought to keep strawberries alive through the cold winters. I’ve learned the right way to winterize strawberry plants so that they … Read more
People love to decorate their homes with amaryllis bulbs during the holidays. The trumpet-shaped flowers come in beautiful colors like red, pink, and white. However, some gardeners wonder “why is my amaryllis only growing leaves?” when their bulb doesn’t flower properly. If your eager amaryllis plant is all leaves and no flowers, don’t give up … Read more
A cheap and interesting way to make new garlic plants is to grow garlic from bulbils. There are small flower buds called bilbils that grow on the flower stalks of some types of hardneck garlic. Bulbils, which look like tiny cloves, can be collected and planted to make garlic plants that are genetically identical. If … Read more
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is a common biennial herb that has been used medicinally for centuries. It is native to Europe, northern Africa and Asia but has naturalized across North America. The yellow flowers of mullein give way to seed pods that contain an abundance of tiny seeds that can be collected and used to propagate … Read more
Mandevilla is a popular tropical vine grown for its large, showy flowers. While commonly propagated by cuttings, some gardeners enjoy the challenge of growing mandevilla from seeds. If you want to try propagating mandevilla from seed, you probably wonder – how long does it take for the seeds to sprout and produce mature vines? Mandevilla … Read more
The sweet gum tree is a beautiful deciduous tree that makes a great subject for photography. Their star-shaped leaves, interesting bark, and spiky seed pods make them interesting to look at all year long. Here are some tips on how to get great pictures of these unique trees. Getting to Know the Sweet Gum The … Read more
Trees with Orange Leaves in Spring Causes and Care Seeing trees with orange leaves in spring can be alarming for gardeners. While autumnal shades of orange, red, and yellow are normal as deciduous trees prepare for dormancy, such color changes in spring are often a sign of underlying problems. This article covers the common causes … Read more
Cherry blossom trees, with their stunning flowers and cultural significance, are treasured additions to any landscape. However, even the most beloved cherry tree can fall into decline. If your cherry blossom is showing signs of distress, prompt action is needed to restore its health. With some thoughtful care and strategic intervention, you can revive a … Read more