Kristina Hicks-Hamblin 
Coffee makes an outstanding hot drink, but what about using the spent grounds in the garden? These dregs are touted as a great fertilizer, mulch, and compost ingredient, but what does the science say? To find out if your notions about gardening with coffee grounds are on target – or a bit off center – keep reading now.
You may have already learned many great companion plant combinations, but do you understand the science behind why they work? From controlling pests to preventing soil erosion, companion planting is a key element among organic backyard gardening practices. Read our guide on the benefits of companion planting now.
Have you considered planting native wildflowers in your garden or yard? Using a palette of well-adapted plants, you can design and grow a local wildflower landscape to fit your gardening style and growing conditions. Find the best tips on how to plan and plant your own unique, native wildflower garden in this guide.
Native wildflowers offer a low-maintenance and waterwise way to bring beauty into your garden or yard. Some of these plants are widespread and very adaptable, making them excellent landscaping options for many gardeners. Keep reading to discover a selection of 15 of the best native wildflowers for the US and Canada.
Milkweed is vital to monarch butterflies, so as a caring gardener, you can grow it at home to help out these regal pollinators. But to make sure you’re truly helping and not hurting, it’s important to plant native milkweed species based on your location. Keep reading to find the best milkweeds to grow for your area.
Beans are an easy veggie to grow in the garden, even for beginners. However, it’s important to harvest this summer staple at the right size so you get the most bang for your buck, and the best texture. Read more now to learn our easy techniques for picking fresh snap beans, as well as the best time to harvest them.
Thinking of growing winter squash? Make sure to choose the best variety to match the length of your growing season and the size of your garden. And of course, you’ll want to pick a cultivar that will please your palate too! Keep reading to discover 11 of the best winter squash cultivars and find your new favorite.
Broccoli rabe is a cool season veggie that will spice up your spring or fall harvest with its compelling flavor profile. It’s easy to sow directly from seed and is a fast grower, so when planning a diverse assortment of leafy greens for your homestead or garden, don’t forget tasty rapini. Keep reading to learn more.
Artichokes can become long-term perennial residents in your garden. Before you plant these thistles, make sure you pick the best variety for your climate and conditions. Whether you have a short growing season, very mild winters, or a compact garden, you have your choice among cultivars. Keep reading to learn more.
Artichoke plants can be grown in your garden or flower beds, offering a tasty and generous harvest as either annuals or perennials. Adaptable to various climates and growing seasons, these silvery architectural plants can also do double duty as ornamental features. Keep reading to learn more about growing artichokes.
Chinese lantern is a charming ornamental that will bring a touch of whimsy to your garden. The papery, red-orange husks of this perennial come into their full splendor in autumn, providing bright fall color, and can be used in bouquets or dried arrangements. Keep reading to learn more about growing Chinese lantern.
Cosmos come in a stunning array of different varieties, but we’ve narrowed the field to 25 of the most gorgeous, colorful cultivars, many of them award winners. Discover the best and most beautiful double, semi-double, bicolored, and patterned cosmos varieties and choose your favorite for your yard and garden.
From surprisingly colored garden veggies to unexpectedly adorable berries, from teensy cucumbers to oversized beans, there are a wealth of unique edible plants you can grow in your backyard landscape. Ready to discover 17 unusual – and delicious – fruits and vegetables you can grow at home? Read more now.
If you think your garden isn’t suited to growing melons, or you just don’t find melons to be very exciting, it’s time to consider some new varieties. Discover a selection of cultivars to please every palate, and identify those that are perfectly suited to your growing conditions. Explore 33 top melon varieties now.
Orchids make striking houseplants with their novel good looks – and they’re really not that hard to keep happy. But when you bring one of these beauties into your home, you’ll want to make sure you provide it with the right light and water and give it the best care. To learn the basics of growing orchids, keep reading.
Spiderworts are gorgeous, low maintenance houseplants and they are available in some stunning varieties. With a variety of color combinations, and solid or variegated foliage, these tropical foliage plants liven up the indoor landscape. Discover 9 of the best spiderwort varieties and choose your favorites. Read more now.
Spiderwort (Tradescantia), aka wandering dude, is an ideal houseplant for beginner gardeners. The long, trailing foliage may be shades of green, purple, or variegated, depending on the cultivar. It grows quickly and looks gorgeous in hanging baskets. Learn how to grow spiderwort in this guide. Read more now.
Some cats love to nibble on spider plants, so you may be wondering whether it’s safe for them to chew on this grass-like houseplant. You may also wonder why your feline companion is so obsessed with this particular plant. Learn whether spider plants are toxic to cats and how to protect your plant from being chewed to a nub.