Beauty in the garden is not always obvious at first glance. Some of the most valuable plants for biodiversity, soil health, and pollinator support are considered “ugly” because they are wild-looking, scraggly, or lack the big, showy flowers that get all the attention. But appearances can be deceiving. Many of these overlooked plants play critical...
Doomsday prepping used to be a fringe movement that many people regarded as a community of paranoid fanatics. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, however, people across the country are looking toward preppers for survival advice. One way they stay prepared for possible disaster is by stockpiling emergency seeds. To some, the thought of...
Caring for houseplants can be intimidating, especially if you have a busy schedule or tend to forget about watering. The good news is that some houseplants not only tolerate neglect but actually thrive on it. These low-maintenance beauties are perfect for beginner gardeners, frequent travelers, or anyone who wants greenery without constant attention. Many of...
For many gardeners, seeing mushrooms sprouting across the lawn might spark worry about disease, decay, or poor lawn care. The instinct is often to rake them away, spray chemicals, or dig them up. But the truth is, mushrooms are usually a sign of a healthy, thriving ecosystem beneath your feet. Far from being a problem,...
Glue traps are a pretty common pest control method that many of us don’t think twice about. But when an animal becomes ensnared in a glue trap, it is a nightmare of unimaginable suffering. These seemingly innocuous household items are designed to catch pests, but the cruel reality is that they often capture innocent creatures...
Pollinator gardens are more popular than ever, and it is no surprise that “pollinator mix” seed packets have exploded in popularity. With cheerful packaging and promises to “save the bees” and “support butterflies,” these mixes seem like an easy, affordable way to create a thriving habitat for wildlife. But here’s the catch: many of these...
It is easy to get swept up in the beauty of glossy garden center displays, where vibrant flowers and lush greenery promise instant curb appeal. But hidden among the tempting plants are species that can wreak havoc on your yard, choke out native plants, and create long-term maintenance nightmares. Many of these invasive or overly...
The internet is overflowing with garden hacks promising to save time, boost growth, and solve every problem in your yard. While some tips are helpful, others can backfire badly, damaging your soil, harming your plants, or even attracting pests. It can be tempting to try quick fixes that sound too good to be true, but...
Companion planting is a popular gardening practice that involves planting different crops together to improve growth, repel pests, and maximize space. While it offers numerous benefits, there are also many myths and misconceptions surrounding it. Understanding the truth behind these myths can help you make more informed decisions and achieve better results in your garden....
Every fall, gardeners everywhere grab their rakes and leaf blowers to clear their lawns of fallen leaves. It feels tidy, it looks neat, and for many, it has always been the “right” thing to do. But if you care about pollinators like butterflies and bees, raking every leaf away could be doing more harm than...
If you want your Christmas cactus to put on a dazzling display of blooms during the holidays, September is the month to set the stage. These unique plants are known for their vibrant, cascading flowers that brighten up homes in the winter, but they need a little help to bloom on time. Proper care this...
As a gardener, I’m always on the lookout for potential threats to my beloved plants and flowers. One of the most concerning issues you might encounter is the presence of giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum). This plant is not just a nuisance; it’s extremely dangerous and can cause severe health problems for humans. Knowing how to...
