A sunny window, a little water, and good drainage – requirements for an ideal houseplant. Succulents, whose fleshy tissues conserve moisture, look lush and come in a variety of shapes and colors, yet are remarkably easy to maintain. Members of the cactus family, succulents will actually thrive on neglect and surprise you with their vitality….
Lucky Bamboo, botanical name dracaena, is tough and resilient. It does not require direct sunlight, allowing you to add a bit of green life to those windowless rooms. Lucky Bamboo will grow in a vase or a planter with rocks and is maintained by adding or replacing the water twice a week. When roots are…
Adore daffodils? Love tulips? As with most groups of plants, bulbs come with their own set of special considerations. Bulbs are not for the impulsive gardener and they won’t supply instant gratification. Some bulbs are perennials and will multiply while others will bloom only one, maybe two years. Investigate details about specific bulbs by asking…
The many varieties of mint – peppermint, chocolate, spearmint, apple, ginger, etc. – have been in use all over the world for teas, as an added flavor to many different food dishes, and for medicinal uses. In the garden, mint quickly fills in bare spots (even threatens to take over, if ignored!) with beautiful green,…
While hydrangeas seem old-fashioned to some, gardeners have renewed their interest in this versatile plant. It has become so popular that “The American Hydrangea Society” in Atlanta, Georgia was founded in 1994. With many varieties of shrubs and climbers, a hydrangea can be found to suit zones 3-9 and becomes a perfect addition to the…
They can fly at speeds up to 60 mph, travel unbelievable distances without stopping, yet are no bigger than your thumb. As they migrate from their tropical winter habitats, they search our yards for ideal locations for their summer homes. If you want these magical creatures to choose your home this summer, create a special…
As temperatures warm, the garden is blooming and perennials are making their expected return, yet you crave a new design element in the garden. Consider vining or climbing plants. When paired with an attractive structure to climb, they add not only height to your garden but also incredible displays of color. Make a Topiary Select…
A trellis may not only be a necessity for the growth and floral display of particular plants, it can also add a new visual element to your garden. Visit any home and garden store or peruse a gardening catalog and you are sure to find many options for trellises, both beautiful and functional. Some will…
Do as nature intended with your lawn clippings and kitchen scraps – compost them! Whether you buy the top of the line bin, make your own, or just start a heap, your garden (and refuse collectors) will be thankful. The rich organic matter that develops in your compost pile will do wonders for your plants…
The seed catalogs have arrived and the home improvement stores have placed their starting kits by the front door. The time has come for starting seeds. While seeds can be directly sown outdoors, some actually preferring this, why not get a head start on the growing season and a little green thumb workout at the…