All About Rose Growing Habits

A close up horizontal image of a stone wall covered in pink roses.

No doubt you’ve seen shrub roses, but did you know they can also be climbers or ground covers? Roses come in a number of different growing styles, including bushy, rambling, or even tree shapes. This guide will walk you through all the different styles so you can better narrow down what will work for you in your space.

How to Use Nasturtiums for Pest Control

A close up horizontal image of red and orange colorful nasturtiums growing in the garden pictured in bright sunshine.

Nasturtiums are multipurpose plants that can help to control pests in your garden the natural way, without chemicals. You can use them as trap crops or to repel unwelcome insects. This guide shows you everything you need to know about using nasturtiums to control 7 common garden pests, such as squash bugs and aphids.

How to Grow and Care for Larch Trees

A close up horizontal image of the fall foliage of a larch tree pictured on a blue sky background.

Larches are deciduous conifers that have dramatic fall foliage and colorful cones. Because of their unique, elegant appearance, they draw all the attention in the garden. But their pretty looks hide a tough, resilient interior. They’re disease resistant, extremely cold hardy, and tolerant of drought, heat, and fire.

How to Grow and Care for Ornamental Alliums

A close up horizontal image of purple flowering alliums growing in the garden pictured on a soft focus background.

Ornamental alliums are versatile plants that add an architectural element to the garden. They’re also incredibly varied, with blossoms that may look like little yellow starbursts or others with purple softball-sized flower heads. Plus, they don’t require much maintenance. If you like the sound of this, then read on!

How to Grow and Care For Agretti

A close up horizontal image of freshly harvested agretti (Salsola soda) in a colander set on a dark surface.

Agretti isn’t well-known as a garden vegetable, but it deserves to be. It’s super flavorful, like a savory mix between seaweed and spinach with a crisp crunch. It’s super easy to grow, with few pests or diseases to worry about. The biggest challenge? Getting the seeds to germinate. This guide will help you succeed.

17 of the Best Wisteria Varieties

A close up horizontal image of purple wisteria flowers blooming in evening sunshine pictured on a soft focus background.

Wisterias come in a range of exciting varieties, including native types that won’t become invasive, but still grow quickly and well. They can have white, pink, purple, lavender, or blue blossoms. Some bloom once, and others return for a second flush later in the year. Meet 17 of the best options in this guide.

How to Plant and Grow Marjoram in Your Herb Garden

A close up of Origanum majorana growing in the garden, with light red stems contrasting with the deep green leaves, pictured on a soft focus background.

Marjoram is oregano’s more refined cousin, with a subtle woodsy, sweet flavor that is equally delicious raw in a salad or as a seasoning on chicken. This sun-loving herb isn’t too fussy and it works well in containers. If you’re looking for something a little less common to round out your herb garden, read more now.

29 of the Best Self-Seeding Perennials

A close up horizontal image of a colorful flower garden filled with self-seeding perennials pictured in bright sunshine.

A plant that seeds itself and returns the following year is a treat for gardeners who don’t have the time or money to fill a large garden area. You can encourage them to spread into new spots or just let them do their thing. This guide introduces 29 of the best ornamental perennials that will self-sow in the garden.

23 of the Best Magnolia Varieties

A close up horizontal image of pink and white magnolia flowers growing in the garden pictured in light sunshine.

There are hundreds of magnolia species and even more hybrids and cultivars out there, so choosing the perfect one can be difficult. This guide explores 23 of the best magnolia varieties, from petite shrubs to massive trees, and everything in between. Find magnolias that thrive in the cold or that flower profusely.

How to Plant and Grow Wasabi

A close up horizontal image of wasabi stems, cleaned and trimmed, set in a wicker basket. To the right of the frame and a stem that has been grated.

If you know, you know. Real wasabi is way better than the neon green horseradish stuff that most sushi restaurants give you. This guide helps you grow wasabi no matter where you live. Learn about planting and care, plus new ways to use fresh wasabi, and how to deal with any problems that pop up along the way.

How to Grow and Care for Sweetbay Magnolia Trees (White Laurel)

A close up horizontal image of a single sweetbay magnolia (white laurel) flower growing in the garden pictured in bright sunshine on a soft focus background.

Sweetbay magnolias bloom for a long time with lots of intensely lemon-scented flowers. They’re also fairly easy to care for, and will even thrive in boggy areas where other plants quickly drown. There are many new and exciting cultivars to choose from. Learn all about growing these magnificent shrubs and trees.

How Does Color Impact Tomato Flavor?

A close up horizontal image of a wide variety of different tomatoes, both sliced and whole, in different colors and sizes.

Tomatoes come in a huge range of colors and flavors, and the pigment influences how a tomato tastes. Black ones are complex and smoky, reds offer a balance of sweetness and acid, and yellows are mostly sweet. This guide explains how color impacts flavor so you’ll know what to expect when you pick up that striped fruit.

How and When to Deadhead Roses

A close up horizontal image of two hands from the left of the frame holding a pair of pruners deadheading a rose flower pictured in bright sunshine.

If you want to grow show-stopping roses, you’re going to need to know all about deadheading. Understanding why we deadhead, when to do it, and most importantly, the right way to go about it, is key to making the most of your rose bushes. This guide explains all the ins and outs to make you a true deadheading expert.

How to Grow and Care for Rugosa Roses

A close up horizontal image of a pink rugosa rose growing by the side of a pathway.

Love roses but hate how difficult they can be to grow? There’s an option that doesn’t need winter protection and resists all those common rose pests and diseases. Rugosa roses are beautiful on the outside but hide a tough interior. Learn how to plant and care for tough, hardy, and resilient rugosa roses.

How and When to Fertilize Elderberry Shrubs

A close up of an elderberry shrub in the autumn sunshine, with large clusters of dark berries surrounded by light green foliage on a soft focus background.

Elderberries need extra nutrients if you want a healthy shrub, large flowers, and an abundant harvest. And that means fertilizer. But when is the best time to add fertilizer to your plants, and what kind should you use? Discover how and when to fertilize your elderberry shrubs with this guide. Read more now.

How to Propagate Orchids from Seed

A close up horizontal image of a hand holding four orchid seedlings with roots attached.

Once you’ve mastered cultivating orchids, the next step is propagating them from seed. This isn’t a task for beginners – it’s a major challenge! This guide walks you through the entire process to help make it easier and set you up for success. It really is possible to grow orchids from seed. Here’s how.

How to Identify and Treat Rose Rust

A close up horizontal image of rose foliage covered in the symptoms of a fungal disease known as rust, pictured on a soft focus background.

Rose rust is becoming more and more common, and it’s challenging to deal with. Once it takes hold, it can be downright impossible to eliminate. This explains how to identify and deal with this fungal disease, including some excellent resistant options, so you can enjoy your roses without the rust drama.

How to Grow and Care for Blueberry Bushes

A pair of human hands harvesting blueberries into a wicker basket.

Nutritious and oh-so-delicious, blueberries are the perfect plant for your berry patch. On top of the famous fruits, the plants themselves are quite beautiful, with intense red foliage in the fall and highly fragrant blossoms in the spring. In this guide, we’ll show you how to plant, grow, and help these bushes thrive.

How to Plant and Grow Delicata Squash

A close up horizontal image of a pile of 'Delicata' squash at a grocery store.

‘Delicata’ squash is delicate and delicious when it comes to the texture and flavor, but there’s nothing delicate about it in the garden. It’s disease-resistant and resilient, and one plant will give you a massive harvest. Learn about planting, caring for, and using up all your glorious ‘Delicata’ squash in this guide.

9 of the Best Companion Plants to Grow with Zucchini

A horizontal image of a gardener holding a freshly harvested, single green zucchini pictured on a soft focus background.

Companion planting can reduce the need for chemicals to keep your garden happy. They can repel pests, add nutrients to the soil, and provide other benefits. The wrong plants can do the opposite, attracting bad bugs, depleting the soil, and wreaking havoc. Here are the best and worst companion plants for zucchini.

How to Grow Elderberry in Pots and Containers

A close up of a mature elderberry plant, growing in a container with ripe, dark purple fruit hanging in clusters, pictured in bright sunshine with blue sky in the background.

If you love the blossoms and fruits of the beautiful elderberry but don’t have space in the garden, why not grow it in containers instead? Elderberry is a vigorous grower and will thrive in pots as long as you keep a few tips in mind. Learn how to grow and care for elderberry shrubs in containers. Read more now.

How to Lower Soil pH to Grow Blueberries

A close up horizontal image of a gardener harvesting blueberries in autumn sunshine.

Even if your soil isn’t absolutely perfect, you can still grow and enjoy blueberry bushes. Gardener’s Path explains how to lower soil pH for the long-term so your blueberries can really thrive. This comprehensive guide helps you sort out your soil situation so you can start enjoying the delicious fruits. Read more now.

How to Plant and Grow Calabaza Squash

A close up horizontal image of a harvested and cured calabaza squash in a pile in storage.

Looking for a squash that produces massive fruits that are full of dense, sweet flesh? How about one that is resistant to disease and thrives in hot temperatures? It’s time to learn more about delicious calabaza squash, an heirloom type that originated in South America and is gaining in popularity. Read more now.

How to Grow and Care for Lavender Twist Redbuds

A horizontal image of a weeping Lavender Twist redbud tree (Cercis canadensis ‘Covey’) in full bloom.

If you love a redbud, with its bright spring color and glossy, elegant leaves, then you’ll go wild for Lavender Twist®. It’s a weeping type with even more blossoms per inch than the species, vibrant fall color, and zig-zagging branches, giving you four-season interest on a compact, tough plant. Read more now.

How and When to Do the Chelsea Chop

A close up horizontal image of a gardener pruning flowers in the gardener using the Chelsea chop.

The Chelsea chop isn’t some fashionable new haircut. It’s a tried-and-true way to prune your plants in the spring to maximize blossoms, extend bloom times, and help prop up droopy flowers. It’s simple to do, but timing is key – it can only be done during a few weeks in the spring or you risk doing more harm than good.

When and How to Plant Borage Seeds

A close up of a mature Borago officinalis plant with delicate blue, star-shaped flowers growing in the garden with blue sky and sunshine in the background.

Borage is an easy to grow herb with tasty leaves and pretty, edible blossoms that attract a variety of pollinators. It can also be used as a cover crop in the garden. It’s easy to start from seed, if you keep a few points in mind. Learn how and when to plant borage seeds to enjoy this herb in your landscape.

Tips for Growing Fabulous Tree Roses

A close up horizontal image of a variety of shrubs planted outside a white building pictured in bright sunshine.

Tree roses are the crown jewel in a garden. They make an impressive impact with their stand-out shape and stunning floral display. That is, so long as you know the right way to plant, prune, and care for these beauties. In this guide, we’ll give you all the info you need to make your roses as pretty as they can be.

Growing Lovage: An Uncommon Herb with Many Uses

A close up of the foliage of a young Levisticum officinale plant on a soft focus background.

Lovage doesn’t get the attention in the home garden that it deserves. Its flavor is fresh and herbal, and cultivation is fuss-free. It self seeds without being invasive and attracts beneficial insects. It also has some medicinal properties. What’s not to love? Read more now to learn how to grow and care for lovage.

21 of the Best Redbud Varieties

A close up horizontal image of the bright pink flowers of a redbud tree in full bloom in the spring garden.

Redbuds aren’t just for those who want pink flowers in the early spring. They come in all shapes and sizes, with variegated leaves, white blossoms, or zig-zagging branches for year-round interest in the garden. In this guide, we talk about 21 of the best redbud varieties, including both western and eastern types.

How to Grow and Care for Swiss Cheese Plants

A close up horizontal image of the foliage of Monstera deliciosa aka Swiss cheese plant pictured on a dark background.

Swiss cheese plants make an impressive statement in any space with their massive leaves and dramatic fenestration. But these showstoppers aren’t demanding, giving you a lot of showy bang for your buck. This guide will help you to encourage those characteristic leaf holes, and learn how to make your plant climb.

19 of the Best Reblooming Flowers for Months of Color

A close up horizontal image of pink roses in full bloom in the garden pictured in bright sunshine on a soft focus background.

Don’t say goodbye to spring flowers like lilacs, clematis, and magnolias once they start to fade away as summer approaches. These 19 reliable plants will rebloom for a second (or even third or fourth) showing of blossoms in the same growing season. Learn more about flowers that will rebloom in this guide.

How to Grow and Care for Oklahoma Redbud Trees

A close up horizontal image of the bright pink flowers of an Oklahoma redbud tree pictured on a soft focus background.

Redbud trees have a well-deserved reputation for offering up stunning spring color and elegant heart-shaped leaves on a disease-resistant tree. Now, make it more compact and early blooming. Take all that and sprinkle in a little extra drought tolerance on a plant that is happy in the heat, and you’ve got ‘Oklahoma.’

How to Protect Your Tulips from Deer

A close up horizontal image of a deer in the snow eating flowers in the garden.

Do you know who loves tulips just as much as you do? Deer, that’s who. They love the bulbs, leaves, and blossoms more than just about anything else. They’ll go out of their way, through deterrents and from afar, to find and eat tulips. In this guide, we’ll explain how to enjoy your tulips while keeping the deer away.

17 of the Best Red Petunias for Your Garden

A horizontal image of Tidal Wave 'Red Velour' flowers growing in the garden pictured in bright sunshine.

Petunias are known for their long-lasting, vibrant flowers and for being resistant to pests and disease. It’s no wonder they’re so popular. Looking for a little crimson? Longing for some speckled cardinal blossoms? In this guide, we share 17 red petunia options that will add bold color to your garden all season long.

How to Grow and Care for Magnolia Trees

A close up horizontal image of a magnolia tree in full bloom with white and pink flowers.

If you’re looking for low-maintenance color in a majestic display, check out magnolias. They come in tree and shrub forms, and there are hundreds of species that can tolerate a huge range of temperatures. It’s safe to say that nearly anyone can find one for their space. Learn all about growing magnolias in this guide.

How to Plant and Grow Hot Peppers

A close up horizontal image of a hand from the right of the frame, harvesting a ripe red hot pepper from the garden.

Would you pick spicy over sweet any day of the week? Do you bypass the bells and buy handfuls of habaneros instead when you head to the grocery store? When someone warns you their stuffed jalapenos are spicy, do you chuckle? If you’re someone who likes it hot, learn about growing and raising chili peppers in our guide.

How to Transplant Rose Bushes

A close up horizontal image of a rose shrub growing in a garden border covered in orange flowers, with a garden scene in soft focus in the background.

Have a rose bush that;s growing in the wrong place? You don’t have to live with it. Instead, move your plant to a better spot in the garden. We’ll help you dig up and transplant your rose so it can thrive. From picking the right spot to getting it in the ground – without killing it in the process – our guide can help.

How to Grow Common Chicory

A close up of bright blue Cichorium intybus flowers growing in the garden, pictured on a soft-focus background.

Chicory is nutritious, with leaves that add a bright zing to salads. The roots can be also harvested and roasted to make a mean cup of coffee. It’s easy to grow and has pretty blue flowers that attract a variety of pollinators. In this guide, you’ll learn how to plant and grow chicory in your garden. Read more now.

How to Plant and Grow Purslane

A close up of Portulaca oleracea or Purslane growing in the garden with flat green leaves and small yellow flowers, on a soft focus background.

Looking for a plant that’s easy to grow, with more omega-3 fatty acids than any other leafy green? Meet purslane. This juicy green “superfood” grows like a weed, and adds oomph to everything from salads to spanakopita. Our guide to growing Portulaca oleracea will teach you everything you need to know. Read more now.

Tips for Growing Highbush Blueberries in Your Garden

A close-up horizontal image of a cluster of highbush blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum) ready to harvest pictured in filtered sunshine on a soft-focus background.

Highbush blueberries produce tons of fruit in the summer, with gorgeous blossoms in the spring and foliage that turns bright colors in the fall. What’s not to love? Learn everything you need to know to select, plant, and care for these fantastic fruits. You’ll be digging in before you know it. Read more now.

How to Grow and Care for Wisteria

A horizontal image of Chinese wisteria growing on a stone wall with pretty purple flowers cascading over the side.

A wisteria in bloom is like something out of a fairy tale, with otherworldly clusters of purple, white, or pink blossoms dripping all over the vine. But it can quickly become a nightmare if it grows where you don’t want it to. Learn how to grow this plant properly so that you can enjoy the blooms without the drama.

69 Incredible Edible Flowers and How to Use Them

A close up horizontal image of edible flowers used on an open sandwich.

You may be surrounded by edible flowers without even knowing it. Dianthus, begonia, and forsythia? Edible. Forget-me-nots, yuccas, and gladiolus? Delicious. Whether you want a little something to act as a colorful garnish, or you’re serious about using flowers to add flavor to your recipes, there are so many options.

How to Grow and Care for Douglas Iris

A close up horizontal image of the purple, yellow, and white flower of a Douglas iris pictured on a soft focus background.

Douglas irises are tough plants that can grow in challenging spots. But they don’t look like they’d be all that tough. They have elegant, colorful, delicate blossoms that can appear from spring to fall. Learn more about growing these beautiful North American natives, whether you have a shady spot or heavy clay soil.

How to Grow Chervil

A close up of the leaves of Anthriscus cerefolium, common chervil, growing in the garden in light sunshine.

Chervil is parsley’s sophisticated cousin, and its complex, delicate flavor deserves a more prominent place in the kitchen. It’s not difficult to cultivate in a cool, moist area, and it can fill those shady spots in the garden where other plants won’t grow. Read more about planting and caring for this unique herb now.

How Many Types of Roses Are There? A Guide to Rose Classification

A horizontal image of different colors and types of roses growing in a large swath in the garden, pictured in bright spring sunshine.

Tea, damask, polyantha, oh my! There are so many kinds of roses that it can all get a bit confusing. If you’re wondering what a shrub rose or a tea rose is, or what separates modern roses from old garden roses, this is the guide for you. We’ll help you sort out all the details and choose the best varieties for your garden.

How to Grow and Care for Peppermint Plants

A close up, top down picture of peppermint (Mentha x piperita) growing in the garden, with bright green leaves on a soft focus background.

If you like your mint with an extra bite that pairs perfectly with chocolate and candies, look no further than peppermint. This fragrant herb is easy to grow and makes a tasty tea that can soothe digestive issues and relieve mild headaches. Learn how to add this aromatic, flavorful herb to your garden. Read more now.

How to Grow Oregon Sugar Pod Peas

A close up of a pile of 'Oregon Sugar Pod II' peas.

Do you love those sweet, crispy sugar snap peas? Then Oregon Sugar Pod peas will blow your mind. They grow fast, don’t need support, have impressive disease resistance, and there’s that fabulous, sweet flavor and crisp texture. Bred in Oregon to create the perfect freezing pea, we’re sure you’ll call it a success.

How to Propagate Roses from Cuttings

A close up horizontal image of freshly clipped stems for propagating roses from cuttings.

Do you want to clone a rose plant that you adore? Taking cuttings is an easy way to make it happen. By snipping a stem from the parent plant and putting it in soil, you can encourage it to root and create a new rose plant. But of course, there’s more to it than that! In this guide, we’ll explain the entire process.

How to Use Anise as a Pest Repellent

A close up horizontal image of anise growing in the garden pictured in light sunshine on a soft focus background.

If you’re looking for a multipurpose garden superstar, check out aniseed. This pretty plant attracts many of the beneficial pests we love and repels a lot of the bad ones. For instance, bad nematodes and common aphids can’t stand anise. Bees and butterflies adore it. Learn all about companion planting with anise now.

Reasons and Fixes for Empty Pea Pods

A close up horizontal image of a wooden bowl filled with freshly shelled peas with pods scattered around on a wooden surface.

Who doesn’t love cracking open a pod and enjoying fresh, tasty peas? And who hasn’t experienced the horror of slicing the shell open to find a completely empty interior? What happened? Where are the seeds? This guide explains why your pea pods are empty and what you can do to fix it so you can enjoy fresh peas again.

How to Grow and Care for Rhododendrons

A close up horizontal image of bright pink rhododendrons growing in the garden.

Rhododendrons are one of the most stunning shrubs out there. If you’ve ever seen one absolutely covered from tip to crown in blossoms, then you know what we mean. But they need a little special care to achieve that glorious display. With the right water, exposure, soil, and care, you can have a picture-perfect rhodie.

How to Plant and Grow Toothwort (Pepper Root)

A horizontal image of toothwort (Cardamine) in full bloom growing in a woodland location.

Toothwort thrives in shade and provides colorful ground cover where other plants can’t survive. The flowers serve as the perfect way to bring the woodlands into your garden and you can eat the herb from root to tip. It tastes a lot like horseradish, which is why this plant is often called pepper root. Read more now.

How to Propagate Petunias from Seed

A close up horizontal image of colorful petunias growing in wide plastic pots.

They’re colorful, flower for a long time, and are a cinch to grow. As if there wasn’t enough to love about petunias already, they’re also fun to grow from seed as long as you know how to keep them happy. Learn how to propagate petunias from seed now, from picking the right pots to providing the right light exposure.

27 of the Best Shade-Loving Herbs for Your Garden

A close up horizontal image of a herb garden in light filtered sunshine.

Shade is wonderful when you’re overheated and need a spot to escape from the heat of the sun, but it can be a serious challenge when it comes to the herb garden. Whether you like the flavor or make medicinal tea with herbs, many prefer a good amount of sunshine. Now, meet 27 herbs that produce well even in shady spots.

When and How to Transplant Clematis

A close up horizontal image of pink clematis flowers growing in the garden pictured on a soft focus background.

Clematis has a reputation for being hard to transplant, but it helps to understand its growth habits. Clematis needs to establish healthy roots before flowering and disturbed roots need time to recover. A vine that is shocked after moving is working on its roots. Our transplant tips will help you succeed! Read more.

How to Grow and Care for Flowering Cherry Trees

A close up horizontal image of pink cherry blossoms in full bloom pictured in bright sunshine on a blue sky background.

Flowering cherries are cherished around the world, and for good reason: they’re absolutely stunning when in bloom during the spring – and sometimes in the fall, too! We’ll help you make these beauties thrive in your garden, with everything from proper ground preparation to dealing with any problems that might pop up.

All About Orchid Roots and How to Deal With Them

A close up horizontal image of a potted orchid with roots growing out of the pot, pictured on a soft focus background.

What are those roots sprouting from the bark in your orchid’s pot? Are they bad or good? Should you trim them off right away or leave them alone? Should you repot? Gardener’s Path helps you understand the different types of orchid roots and how to deal with each of them. Read more now in our comprehensive guide.

Tips for Growing Spicy Globe Basil

A close up horizontal image of the foliage of Ocimum basilicum var. minimum 'Spicy Globe' (basil) growing in the garden.

‘Spicy Globe’ basil has a pungent flavor and an adorable round shape, perfect for indoor or small outdoor herb gardens. The plant looks like an itty-bitty topiary that you can eat as well as admire, and the flavor is marvelous. Learn more about planting, raising, and using this adorable dwarf cultivar now. Read more.

How to Grow and Care for Japanese Maple Trees

A horizontal image of a Japanese maple tree growing in a formal garden.

Do you need a focal point for your landscape? With a plethora of cultivars, you’re likely to find what you’re looking for in a Japanese maple. From weeping dwarf trees to tall ones covered in scarlet foliage, there’s a massive range to select from. In this guide, we’ll talk about how to select, plant, and grow one.

Tips for Growing Summer Crisp (Batavian) Lettuce

A close up horizontal image of a row of Batavian lettuce growing in the vegetable garden.

Batavian lettuce, aka summer crisp, is heat and frost tolerant, disease resistant, and downright delicious with sweet, crisp leaves. It’s a semi-heading type, so you get the best of both heading and loose-leaf varieties. Learn more about planting and growing these versatile lettuces in this comprehensive guide.

How to Grow Chamomile Indoors

A horizontal image of chamomile flowers in vases and in a bowl set on a wicker table mat.

You’ve probably put a pot of basil, mint, or cilantro in your kitchen window for quick access. But did you know chamomile can grow happily indoors? It’s true! Whether you’re looking to add beauty or an herbal remedy to your home, chamomile will thrive in your indoor food or flower garden with these tips. Read more.

21 of the Best Japanese Maple Varieties

A close up horizontal image of the deep red autumn foliage of a Japanese maple tree growing in the garden.

Do you want a Japanese maple but can’t decide which one to choose? Learn about our top picks to help narrow down the wide array of colors, shapes, and sizes available. Our roundup introduces 21 of the prettiest, hardiest, and most unique Japanese maples out there so you can make the right choice for your garden.

Tips for Growing Rembrandt Tulips

A close up horizontal image of a variety of different colored Rembrandt tulips growing in the spring garden.

Rembrandt tulips are truly the stuff of legend. They’re the flowers that started the infamous tulipmania of the mid-1600s, but the tulips of yore were infected with a nasty virus. Today’s version is hardier and healthier than ever. Learn about where these gorgeous tulips came from and how to grow them in our guide.

A Guide to the Different Types of Japanese Maple Trees

A close up horizontal image of different varieties of Japanese maple trees growing in the garden.

Japanese maples come in a wide range of colors, sizes, and leaf shapes. There are trees with coral bark and some with pink foliage. Some have deeply-lobed leaves, while others have distinct variegation. How do you make sense of all the different types? This guide explains the different categories of Japanese maples.

How to Grow and Care for Umbrella Tree Plants

A close up horizontal image of the variegated foliage of an umbrella tree (aka Schefflera) growing indoors.

Umbrella trees deserve a top spot in the houseplant hall of fame because of their easygoing nature and tropical vibes. These well-loved houseplants resist diseases and can tolerate a big old dose of neglect, looking fantastic all the while. Our guide explains all you need to know to help them thrive. Read more now.

How to Grow and Care for Trillium Flowers (Birthroots)

A horizontal image of a carpet of trillium flowers growing in a woodland.

Do you have a shady spot in your garden just crying out for some color? Need something that doesn’t mind a little clay soil? Plant some trilliums and watch that formerly bland area come to life. Wake robins, as they’re also known, don’t need much special care and they’re easier to propagate than many gardeners realize.

How to Grow Japanese Maple Trees in Pots and Containers

A close up horizontal image of a Japanese maple tree growing in a large, decorative pot set on drainage metal in a formal garden.

Japanese maple is one of the best trees out there for container growing. These have a compact, non-invasive root system and they grow slowly. But while they’re mild-mannered, they provide an exceptional display with bold, bright, and interestingly-shaped foliage, and varied, elegant growth habits. Read more now.

When and How to Prune Camellias

A close up horizontal image of a gardener on the right of the frame holding a pair of pruners trimming a camellia shrub pictured in light sunshine.

Want to get your camellias in their best shape ever? Want to see more blooms than you imagined possible? Then break out the pruners and let’s get to work. This comprehensive guide shows you when, why, and how to prune your camellias the right way, whether you’re doing regular maintenance or tending neglected plants.

How to Plant and Grow Asafetida

A close up horizontal image of an asafetida (Ferula assa-foetida) plant in bloom in a dry garden.

Asafetida is known as both the devil’s dung and the food of the Gods. The stinky plant isn’t common in home gardens, but it should be. Resistant to pests and diseases, one plant provides ample spice for months or years of cooking, plus you can eat the leaves and stems, too. It’s also a useful medicinal herb.

When and How to Fertilize Camellias

A close up horizontal image of a camellia shrub with bright red flowers growing in the garden.

If you want the biggest, most beautiful display possible, you must fertilize your camellias. These plants are heavy feeders and they won’t bloom well if you forget. But you don’t want to feed them at the wrong time either, which can cause leaf growth at the expense of flowering. This guide helps you figure it all out.

How to Grow and Care for Oxalis (Wood Sorrel)

A close up horizontal image of the variegated foliage of four-leaf sorrel growing in the garden.

Growing multipurpose oxalis plants is utterly effortless. This guide discusses some of the most exemplary species, their many uses, and how to make them thrive in your garden. Underappreciated oxalis can be a carefree lawn replacement, a nutritious veggie, a humble garden filler, or all three! Read more now.

11 of the Best Moss Poles for Monstera and Other Epiphytes

A close up horizontal image of a gardener attaching a vining houseplant a moss pole for support.

Moss poles make your plants happier with better access to light and improved air circulation. The upright form of these supports also makes a dramatic statement in your home. With many sizes and options to choose from, which is right for your plant? Our guide explores some of the best picks for your indoor garden.

Tips for Growing Ice Queen Lettuce

A close up horizontal image of an ice queen lettuce growing in the garden almost ready for harvest.

Looking for a crisp, flavorful iceberg lettuce? All hail the queen! ‘Reine des Glaces,’ also called ‘Ice Queen,’ is sweet and juicy and grows in a compact shape that does well indoors or out. Disease resistant, it’s also an heirloom type, which means you can harvest the seeds and plant it again next year.

How to Use Cold Frames in Spring

A horizontal image of a cold frame with the lid closed, set outside a brick structure.

Can’t wait to start your garden in the spring? We get it, neither can we! A cold frame is a versatile tool that can extend the spring growing season significantly. Great for starting seeds, hardening off plants, or growing cold-tolerant plants, our comprehensive guide explains how to use cold frames in the spring.

How to Grow and Care for Redbud Trees

A close up horizontal image of the bright pink blooms of a Cercis redbud tree.

Spring is such a colorful time of year as winter fades away, and one of the most colorful contributors is the glorious redbud tree. These can put on a big, bright, flowery show with very little effort on your part. This guide shows you all you need to know about growing these sturdy, beautiful harbingers of spring.

How to Identify and Manage Bud Mites on Camellia Plants

A close up horizontal image of a camellia plant with flower buds and deep green foliage.

Are your camellia flower buds not opening as expected? Are the terminal buds on your plant looking sad and brown? It could be bud mites. These microscopic pests can wreak havoc on camellia plants, causing buds to turn brown and maybe even fall off. Identifying these pests can be a challenge. Learn more in our guide.

How to Start Pansies from Seed

A close up horizontal image of colorful pansies growing in the garden pictured on a soft focus background.

Pansies are perfect for adding color to your garden during cool weather. They’re also ideal for amping up bland, partially shady spots. Starting pansies from seed is an affordable option and it’s super easy to do. The trick is to embark on your seed-starting adventure well in advance of the ideal transplanting date.

Why Hellebores May Fail to Bloom (And What to Do About It)

A close up horizontal image of hellebore flowers in full bloom in the late winter garden covered with a light dusting of snow.

Gardeners love the winter color Lenten roses provide, but there are several common problems that can cause your hellebores not to bloom. Disease, watering or light exposure issues, planting depth, and more can all result in zero blossoms. Learn more about what causes hellebores to fail to flower and how to fix them.

How to Grow and Care for Staghorn Ferns

A horizontal image of a Platycerium bifurcatum aka staghorn fern plant growing indoors.

Staghorn and elkhorn ferns are dramatic houseplants, living works of art that will turn heads. You can raise them in pots like a typical houseplant, or mount them on the wall for a bolder look – and happier plants. Ready to get started? Read our guide now to learn how to grow these unique plants indoors.

How to Grow and Care for Cattleya Orchids

A close up horizontal image of orange and pink Cattleya labiata flowers pictured on a soft focus background.

Do you love bold, bright color and flouncy petals? Cattleya orchids are perfect for those who like their houseplants with some added flair. Known as “Queen of the Orchids,” these are a must-have for orchid lovers or for anyone who seeks some added vibrancy in their home. Learn how to grow them in our guide.

How to Deal with Japanese Maple Winter Dieback

A horizontal image of a Japanese maple tree growing outside a residence covered in a light dusting of snow.

Japanese maples are fairly sturdy trees that can live a long time but they’re not immune to winter dieback. When temperatures rise and fall repeatedly, especially coupled with desiccating winds, it can seriously harm your precious plants. Learn all about dealing with and preventing winter damage in Japanese maples now.

How to Grow a Japanese Maple Bonsai

A close up horizontal image of a Japanese maple tree growing as a bonsai set on a wooden plinth outdoors with a green hedge in the background.

Japanese maple bonsai trees are striking with their unique foliage and dramatic forms. Plus, each season brings a change as they transition from spring into winter. This guide demystifies the process of planting and caring for one of your own. Don’t worry, while they aren’t the easiest species to grow, it isn’t hard.

How to Grow Monstera on a Moss Pole

A close up horizontal image of a variegated monstera (Swiss cheese) plant growing up a moss pole indoors.

Moss poles aren’t just a new, fancy accessory for growing monstera houseplants. They’re a necessity if you want the healthiest growth and an attractive appearance. Our guide has all the details on how to use moss poles effectively to make sure your Swiss cheese plants are as healthy and happy as possible. Read more.

Tips for Growing Bonsai Apple Trees

A close up horizontal image of an apple tree with three developing fruits trained to grow as a bonsai in a blue ceramic pot.

Apple bonsai are dramatic, striking trees in a small package. They produce full-sized fruits on a teeny-tiny tree. Oue guide explains how to grow your own bonsai apple trees, from selecting a specimen to potting, pruning, and shaping them for the most impact. We’ll also help you manage problems that might pop up.

How to Grow and Care for Moth Orchids

A close up horizontal image of a large display of pink and white Phalaenopsis orchids growing in a pot indoors.

Phalaenopsis orchids are fantastic. They’re incredibly elegant, yet despite their delicate appearance, they aren’t all that fussy or tender – tougher in fact than most other orchids, and many other plants in general! But they have unique care requirements compared to other common houseplants. Learn more in our guide.

17 of the Best Dwarf Japanese Maple Varieties

A close up horizontal image of a dwarf Japanese maple growing by the side of a street in a formal rock garden.

Want to create a massive impact in a minimum amount of space? Look no further than dwarf Japanese maples. This guide reveals 17 of the best options, from laceleaf weeping types to upright green leaf cultivars that make a dramatic statement in a tiny package. All of these top picks stay under about 10 feet tall.

23 of the Best Medium-Light Houseplants

A horizontal image of a gardener holding up a trailing philodendron with other houseplants around her.

Forget shade- and sun-loving plants – are you looking for houseplants that do best in medium light? Discover 23 of the best plants to grow in moderate light exposure indoors, from striking African violets and orchids to elegant weeping figs and satin pothos. We’ll also explain exactly what “medium light” means!

Reasons and Fixes for Long Necks and Leggy African Violets

A close up horizontal image of purple African violet flowers pictured on a light soft focus background.

African violets can stretch for the light or develop long necks, making them look sickly or unattractive. This unwanted growth can be brought on by normal aging or it may be caused by problems like too little light, too much water, diseases, or pests. Learn all about how to fix leggy growth on Saintpaulia plants now.

How to Grow and Care for Coffee Plants Indoors

A close up horizontal image of a small coffee plant potted in a mug set on a wooden kitchen counter with white tiles and a sink and faucet in the background.

Coffee plants, the same shrubs that bring us our necessary morning cup of joe, make for some pretty stunning houseplants. They have distinct, large, glossy leaves on a bushy plant, and they need lots of moisture and not too much light to thrive. Learn how to grow Coffea arabica indoors in our comprehensive guide.

How to Prune Philodendron Houseplants

A close up horizontal image of a heartleaf philodendron growing in a pot with a white wall in the background.

Growing philodendrons doesn’t require much maintenance, but you can make them even happier and more impressive-looking by pruning them – as long you do it the right way. Our guide explains the ins and outs of pruning philodendrons, whether you’re pruning your plant into shape or cutting it back to keep it healthy.

Troubleshooting Yellow Leaves on Spider Plants

A close up horizontal image of a variegated spider plant with leaves that are turning yellow.

Spider plants may turn yellow for many reasons, and none of them are good. This is a sign from your plant that something is wrong! But luckily, spider plants are forgiving. Learn how to identify and resolve the problem, whether it’s due to the wrong amount of water, light, or fertilizer, pests, or something else.

How to Water Dracaena Plants

A close up horizontal image of a gardener using a glass watering can to irrigate a small dracaena plant growing in a pot.

It’s easy to get it wrong when watering a dracaena plant. Many people do (no shame!) and the result is browning leaves or blackening stems. Are you guilty of bad watering practices? Don’t worry, you’re in good company. And you’re on the path to redemption – read our complete guide to watering dracaena plants now.

How to Propagate Ferns

A close up horizontal image of ferns growing in the garden with bright green fronds.

Ferns don’t have the typical seeds and branches that we’re familiar with on other plants, but that doesn’t mean you can’t propagate them easily. You can reproduce ferns via spores, cuttings, divisions, and plantlets. This guide explains all four of these methods for propagating ferns so you can find success. Read more.

Why Do Spider Plants Fade or Lose Their Variegation?

A close up horizontal image of a spider plant growing in a small pot set on a wooden surface.

If your favorite spider plant is turning paler or changing to all green when it was variegated before, you’ll need to act fast to turn things around. We’ll explain what causes fading and reverting, and how to fix it. Common culprits include lighting and watering problems. Read more now in this comprehensive guide.

How to Propagate Snake Plants

A close up horizontal image of Dracaena trifasciata leaf cuttings taking root in a jar of water, surrounded by decorative pebbles.

Want lots more snake plants? Of course, we can hardly blame you! They’re fantastic plants to have around. The process itself is easy, though it requires some patience and knowing the right tricks. This guide will explain several methods of propagating snake plants, including division and rooting cuttings in water.

Reasons and Fixes for Snake Plant Leaves Curling

A close up horizontal image of three snake plants (Dracaena trifasciata) planted in pots set on a wooden table with a sash window in the background and a watering can beside them.

Curled leaves on your snake plant are a cry for help. This is a signal that something’s wrong with your plant, caused by temperatures that are too cold, a pest or disease, too much light, or watering issues. Our guide will help you figure out what the problem is and how to resolve it to make your plant happy once more.

Tips for Growing Lettuce Indoors

A close up horizontal image of lettuce growing in a self-watering rectangular planter set on a wooden surface indoors pictured on a soft focus background.

For a vegetable crop that you can quickly grow indoors all year long, try lettuce. Our guide explains how to sow and grow your own lettuce indoors, from picking the best cultivars to providing the right light exposure. Read more now for all the info you need so you can start harvesting fresh greens soon.

11 of the Best Red Japanese Maples for Your Garden

A close up horizontal image of the foliage of a red Japanese maple (Acer palmatum) growing in the garden pictured on a soft focus background.

Red Japanese maples stand out against all the green in the garden with their bright coloring. Plus, the scarlet hue really brings out the unique shape of the lobes and serration of the leaves. Here are 11 of the toughest, brightest, and most gorgeous red Japanese maple options that we’ve found to bring to your garden.

How to Grow Mistletoe

A close up horizontal image of a large clump of mistletoe with bright green foliage and white berries.

Ready for something different? How about gardening in the sky on the branches of trees? Mistletoe is a holiday favorite when we use it to decorate our homes – and maybe get a kiss. But it’s an important plant for wildlife, too. Some butterflies can’t live without it and it provides important winter food for bees.

How to Encourage Orchids to Rebloom

A close up horizontal image of yellow orchid flowers with reddish pink stripes pictured on a soft focus background.

Once your orchid drops all of its blossoms, is it totally done for? Nope, not at all! Don’t give up on your plant. Following a few tried-and-true steps, it’s possible to coax your orchid into putting on a new show year after year. This guide explains all you need to know to encourage your orchid to rebloom reliably.