If you live somewhere hot, wet, and full of slugs — like Hawaii, Puerto Rico, or any tropical coastal region — you already know:Most gardening advice doesn’t work here. The pests are brutal. The rain is relentless. And lettuce? Forget it. But companion planting can still work. You just have to use plants that actually … Read more
There’s something magical about April for us northern gardeners. The snow begins to retreat, revealing patches of soil that have been hidden for months. Tiny green shoots emerge from bulbs planted last fall, and suddenly, the gardening itch becomes impossible to ignore. But if you’ve gardened in a northern climate for any length of time, … Read more
When spring rolls around, gardeners everywhere dive into their favorite rituals: selecting seeds, planning layouts, and eagerly waiting to plant. Timing and plant choices often take center stage, but there’s one critical step that many overlook — and it could mean the difference between a thriving garden and a disappointing harvest. Soil moisture. It’s the … Read more
Plants aren’t just passive straws sucking up whatever moisture they find—they’re tactical water managers with some seriously smart roots! A fascinating new study in the New Phytologist reveals how wheat and grass fields perform hydraulic gymnastics to optimize their water usage. When topsoil gets parched, these botanical geniuses decrease uptake there while boosting their deep-root … Read more
Ever wondered what to do with those banana peels besides tossing them in the compost? Turns out, they’re liquid gold for your garden! Let’s peel back the layers on banana water – the fruity concoction your plants have been secretly craving all along. What Is Banana Water? Banana water is exactly what it sounds like … Read more
Rose pruning is both an art and a science that can transform your garden’s beauty and health. While many gardeners approach this task with trepidation, understanding the fundamental principles and techniques can make it a rewarding experience. This guide combines traditional wisdom with modern insights to help you master the art of rose pruning. Understanding … Read more
Imagine watching a wildfire approaching your neighborhood. You’ve done some landscaping preparations, but are they enough? That nagging feeling of uncertainty is exactly what makes wildfire preparation so stressful. With climate change fueling longer, more intense fire seasons, creating a complete fire-resistant landscape can provide essential protection. By the end of this article, you’ll know … Read more
Your skin tells a story. Every scar, every wrinkle, every sunspot—it’s all part of the narrative. But what if you could rewrite that story? Not with chemicals or quick fixes, but with something timeless, something natural. Plants. For centuries, plants have been quietly doing their work. Healing. Protecting. Restoring. And now, science is catching up … Read more
Vegetables you should always grow form the backbone of any productive home garden. These aren’t just random plants—they’re carefully selected champions that deliver maximum results with minimum effort. What separates exceptional gardeners from the rest isn’t fancy equipment or perfect soil—it’s knowing which vegetables consistently perform season after season. Based on Mark’s extensive experience from … Read more
In the ever-evolving world of interior design, not all popular trends deliver the sophisticated look homeowners hope for. Some widely adopted design choices can actually make spaces appear less expensive and less thoughtfully designed. Here are ten home trends that often miss the mark on elegance but continue to be embraced nonetheless. 1. Exposed Wood … Read more