23 of the Best Mugo Pine Varieties

A horizontal shot of a dwarf mugo pine shrub in landscape with large rocks surrounding it.

Mugo pines add texture and year-round interest to the garden, and they come in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and colors. Some have needles that change color with the seasons and there are diminutive ground cover types and those that grow into large trees. Learn about 23 of the best mugo pines in this guide. Read more now.

How to Grow and Care for Pachyveria Succulents

A close up horizontal image of a pachyveria succulent growing in a red plastic pot pictured on a soft focus background.

Pachyverias are intergeneric succulent plants with chunky or faceted leaves with a blueish-green hue. These low-maintenance plants are a cross between echeverias and pachyphytums and are ideal for growing as houseplants or as an addition to your outdoor succulent garden. Learn how to grow pachyverias in this guide.

11 of the Best Chestnut Varieties to Grow at Home

A close up horizontal image of a large chestnut tree (Castanea) growing in the landscape with large fruits developing.

Chestnut trees (Castanea species) come in a surprisingly large range of shapes and sizes. They can be shrubby ornamentals or towering trees that produce heaps of delicious nuts. Discover 11 of the best chestnut varieties, from majestic ornamentals to those that produce a delicious harvest in this guide. Read more now.

How to Prepare Azaleas for Winter

A horizontal shot of azaleas growing along a fence covered in full bright pink blooms.

Winter can be a challenging time for many plant species, including azaleas. Drying winds, repeated freezing and thawing, or extreme changes in temperature can cause significant damage or even kill your shrubs. Learn how to prepare your azaleas for winter to protect them from the cold weather in this guide. Read more now.

How to Grow ‘Bloodgood’ Japanese Maples

A close up horizontal image of the foliage of a 'Bloodgood' Japanese maple covered in droplets of water.

One of the most iconic Japanese maple varieties is the colorful, beautiful ‘Bloodgood.’ This cultivar has an upright growth habit and sports bright red, burgundy, and purple palmate leaves that make it instantly recognizable. Learn how to grow ‘Bloodgood’ in your landscape with this guide. Read more now.

How to Propagate Aloe from Seed

A close up horizontal image of a small aloe vera plant growing in a white pot indoors.

Aloe is a genus of flowering succulents, suitable for outdoor cultivation in Zones 9 to 11, and popular as easy-care houseplants. The plants feature basal rosettes of fleshy, pointed leaves and long flower stalks bearing tubular blossoms. If you want to try your hand at propagating aloes from seed, this guide can help.

How to Grow and Care for English Stonecrop

A close up horizontal image of English stonecrop (Sedum anglicum) in a rocky garden in full bloom.

English stonecrop is a pretty creeping sedum that features colorful foliage, starry flowers in pink to white, and grow into attractive spreading mats. These highly drought-tolerant plants make an excellent choice for ground covers, rockeries, or in any low water setting. Learn how to grow English stonecrop in this guide.

How to Prepare Daylilies for Winter

A close up horizontal image of colorful daylilies (Hemerocallis) growing in the garden pictured on a soft focus background.

Daylilies are easy-care plants that provide reliable color in the landscape. In some regions, these plants can be left in the ground all winter. But if you live in an area with wet winters or outside of their hardiness range, you can dig up and store the tubers. Learn how to winterize daylilies in this guide. Read more.

All Leaves and No Flowers: Why Amaryllis May Fail to Bloom

A close up horizontal image of brightly colored amaryllis (Hippeastrum) flowers indoors with a window in the background.

Amaryllis (Hippeastrum) are forced to bloom during the winter months, bringing color to the holiday season. But what happens if your bulbs are producing lots of foliage but no flowers? Learn about seven common reasons amaryllis bulbs may fail to flower and what to do about it in this comprehensive guide. Read more now.

When and How to Winterize Blackberries

A horizontal close up of foliage of a wild blackberry plant covered in frost.

Blackberries are generally tough and adaptable, and they can be pretty easy to forget about while you focus on the more fussy plants in the garden. These brambles can still benefit from some preparation ahead of the cold months to ensure they come back strong in spring. Learn how to winterize blackberries in this guide.

How to Grow and Care for Zebra Haworthia

A horizontal photo of several zebra haworthia rosettes growing a pot with striking white stripes on dark foliage.

If you’re looking for a succulent plant that’s easy to care for, takes up little room, and has a funky appearance, zebra haworthia is sure to please. With striking white stripes on dark green foliage this small plant is eye-catching but undemanding. Learn more about growing and caring for zebra haworthia in this guide.

Tips for Growing Cabbage in Containers

A close up horizontal image of a cabbage head covered in droplets of water ready for harvest.

Are you short of gardening space in your yard but love growing cabbage? Or maybe your garden doesn’t have the right soil for these brassicas? Don’t worry, you can grow these cool-weather plants in containers instead. Learn more about how to plant and grow cabbage in containers in this guide. Read more now.

When and How to Fertilize Succulents

A close up horizontal image of a variety of different succulents growing in the garden.

Succulents are an outstanding choice for water-wise gardens. These tough, versatile plants typically thrive in arid conditions and lean soils, and require little care or attention from the gardener. But they’ll do even better with some careful feeding. Learn about how and when to fertilize succulents in this guide.

How to Winterize Bay Laurel

A close up horizontal image of a small bay laurel shrub growing in the garden in a winter landscape, pictured in bright sunshine.

In the right location, bay laurel trees have moderate cold hardiness and can survive a hard frost. You can improve their cold resistance by some preparations in fall. Adding a thick mulch, frost blankets, and by moving containers into a sheltered spot can ensure your bay trees survive the winter. Learn more in this guide.

How to Acclimate Plants for Winter Indoors

A close up horizontal image of a gardener carrying a large houseplant in a jute sack to set it indoors.

If you take some of your houseplants outside to spend the summer months on the patio or in the garden, you’ll need to plan ahead before you bring them back indoors. As the temperatures drop, follow these top tips for acclimating your plants to the indoor environment to ensure a smooth transition. Read more now.

How to Grow and Care for Pittosporum

A close up horizontal image of the small yellowish white flowers of Japanese pittosporum 'Nanum' growing in the garden pictured in light sunshine.

Pittosporum species are flowering evergreen shrubs or small trees for USDA Hardiness Zones 8 to 11, requiring full sun to partial shade and average, well-draining soil. Select from dwarf or full-size shrubs with green or variegated foliage. Learn how to grow and care for Pittosporum species in this guide. Read more now.

How to Grow and Care for New Jersey Tea

A close up horizontal image of the pinkish flowers of a Ceanothus americanus shrub in full bloom.

Covered in fragrant flowers in spring to early summer, New Jersey tea is a low-maintenance shrub that thrives in dry, rocky locations where many species struggle. This North American native is a pollinator favorite, attracting bees, beetles, and butterflies to the garden. Learn how to grow New Jersey tea in this guide.

Why Is My Aloe Not Producing Pups? 7 Common Reasons

A horizontal close up photo of healthy aloe vera plant growing in rich soil.

Aloe plants reproduce by sending out clones called pups. But sometimes an aloe fails to create these new offsets and there are a number of reasons why this might happen. Usually it’s because the plant is stressed in some way. Learn seven common reasons why aloe fails to produce pups and what to do in this guide. Read more.

Tips for Growing Chrysanthemums Indoors

A horizontal photo of three chrysanthemum plants with colorful blooms growing indoors.

Chrysanthemums are colorful late-season bloomers and these perennials make gorgeous indoor plants. Keeping them inside year-round can be a bit tricky as they may fail to bloom without the specific conditions they require. Learn about how to grow and care for chrysanthemums indoors in this guide. Read more now.

When and How to Prune Jasmine

A close up horizontal image of jasmine blooms growing in the garden.

Jasmine varieties are easy-care plants appreciated in the garden for their sweetly scented flowers. And to keep them looking their best and covered in blooms from top to bottom, regular maintenance is needed. A light spring cleanup helps to tidy stray vines, but for lush, showy plants, learn how and when to prune jasmine.

How to Grow ‘Polish Red’ Garlic

A close up horizontal image of a 'Polish Red' garlic bulb set on a wooden surface with cloves scattered around it.

‘Polish Red’ has all the wonderful garlicky flavor we love but without the sulfurous bite. The large cloves of this softneck artichoke type are full of garlic goodness, but they won’t burn your sinuses when you take a bite. Interested in growing your own? Learn how to plant and grow ‘Polish Red’ garlic in this guide.

How to Propagate Succulents from Offsets

A horizontal top view of a succulent with offsets growing in a terra cotta pot.

One of the fun aspects of growing succulents is how easily they reproduce, and growing new plants from offsets or pups may be the easiest propagation technique of all. However, there are a few important steps you need to follow to ensure you are successful. Learn to propagate succulents from offsets in this guide.

When and How to Fertilize Palms

A horizontal shot of a landscape dotted with palm trees.

Whether potted indoors or grown in the landscape, palms create a tropical ambiance wherever they grow. Unfortunately, these plants may suffer from nutrient deficiencies depending on the soil. Learn more about the symptoms of nutrient deficiency and how to fertilize palms for optimal health in this guide. Read more now.

How to Identify and Address Orchid Crown Rot

A close up horizontal image of pink and purple moth orchids (Phalaenopsis) growing in pots indoors.

Orchid crown rot, sometimes known as stem rot, is a deadly disease that can quickly destroy a plant, causing discoloration and eventual collapse. The disease has many causes, from overwatering to infection from pathogens like bacteria and fungi. Learn more about this common problem in this guide. Read more now.

13 of the Best Willow Trees for the Home Landscape

A horizontal image of a large weeping willow (Salix babylonica) growing in a park pictured in bright sunshine.

Willow trees prefer full sun to partial shade, proximity to water, and well-draining loamy soil. In addition to the popular weeping species, there are upright varieties with twisting branches, curling leaves, and color variegation. Learn about 13 of the best willow varieties for the home landscape in this guide. Read more.

When and How to Fertilize Flower Bulbs With Blood Meal

A close up horizontal image of a hand from the right of the frame planting bulbs in the garden.

Blood meal is a nitrogen-rich garden fertilizer made from meat processing waste. All plants need some nitrogen, but flowering bulbs are especially hungry for it. Plus, this product deters deer and improves the balance of beneficial soil microbes. Learn when and how to feed your bulbs using blood meal in this guide.

How to Identify and Treat Sunburn on Orchids

A close up horizontal image of beautiful yellow and red epiphytic orchids growing in pots indoors pictured on a soft focus dark background.

Most orchids we grow at home are shade lovers and don’t appreciate too much sun. Overexposure can cause sun scorch, which results in yellowing leaves, brown spots on roots, stems, and foliage, or even plant death. Learn how to identify sunburn in orchids and what to do about it in this guide. Read more now.

When and How To Water Ginkgo Trees

A horizontal photo of a ginkgo tree in autumn the tree and surrounding ground are covered in golden yellow foliage.

Ginkgo trees are a stunning addition to the landscape in Zones 3 to 9, with their statuesque appearance and beautiful fall colors. These trees are low-maintenance and have a decent drought tolerance, but watering at the right time with the optimal amount helps keep them thriving. Learn how to water ginkgo in this guide.

When and How to Thin Apples (And Why You Should)

A close up horizontal image of bright red apples ready for harvest pictured on a soft focus background.

We all know pruning is good for apple trees but to promote the best harvest ever, you should also be thinning your apples. Thinning is the process of removing some of the small, developing fruits so the tree can put its energy into the remaining pommes. Learn when and how to thin apples in this guide. Read more now.

When and How to Prune Bay Laurel

A close up horizontal image of the foliage and buds of bay laurel growing in the garden.

Grown for their flavorful, savory leaves, bay laurel trees are also highly versatile as ornamentals for containers, hedges, and topiary. But for a dense, showy thicket of glossy green leaves, and a manageable size, they benefit from pruning every year. Learn when and how to prune bay laurel in this guide. Read more now.

How to Identify and Manage Common Sunflower Diseases

A horizontal photo of three sunflower heads in full bloom.

Bold and beautiful, sunflowers are a vibrant addition to the summer garden. There are a number of pathogens that can damage your plants and cause stunted growth, wilting, discolored foliage, or lack of flowers. Learn about seven common sunflower diseases and how to manage them in this guide. Read more now.

21 of the Best Red Succulent Plants

A close up horizontal image of three different red succulent plants growing in pots indoors.

Red succulents come in a variety of hues, from bright crimson to deep burgundy. These plants are a visual treat whether you’re looking for a houseplant for a windowsill, or a drought-tolerant landscaping plant for the yard. Learn about 21 of the most beautiful red succulents in this guide. Read more now.

How to Choose the Right Containers for Orchids

A horizontal close up of a pale yellow orchid in a container.

Orchids are unique plants, and many require special pots to help them thrive. The type of container you need depends on whether you have an epiphyte, which grows in trees, or a terrestrial orchid, which grows in the ground. Learn about how to choose the right container for your orchid species in this guide. Read more.

What to Do If Your Garlic Flowers

A horizontal close up photo of a garlic scape beginning to flower in a vegetable garden.

If you’re growing garlic, at some point your plants will likely produce flower stalks as they mature. But unlike ornamental alliums, these are generally undesirable as they take energy away from bulb production. Learn all about why garlic flowers and what to do when it happens in this guide. Read more now.

Tips for Growing ‘McIntosh’ Apples

A close up horizontal image of freshly harvested 'McIntosh' apples covered in droplets of water.

‘McIntosh’ is the perfect choice for gardeners who want to grow apples in cold regions. The thick-skinned fruits have soft, honey-sweet, cider-flavored flesh that is ideal for making applesauce and for fresh eating. Looking for a classic? Learn how to grow and care for ‘McIntosh’ apple trees in this guide. Read more.

How to Grow and Care for Pussy Willow

A horizontal photo of a pussy willow blossoms against a bright blue sky background.

Found growing wild in ditches, marshes, and river banks across North America and Eurasia, pussy willow is a lover of muddy, wet spots. Renowned for their pale, silky flowers which emerge as the winter retreats, the blossoms are a sure sign of spring’s arrival. Learn how to grow pussy willow in this guide. Read more now.

When and How to Prune Apple Trees

A close up horizontal image of a cluster of ripe apples growing on the branch with droplets of water on the surface of the fruits.

An important part of growing apples is knowing why, when, and how to prune the trees to encourage healthy growth and the best fruit production. This is a yearly process that you need to take care of to ensure an abundant harvest. Learn all about when and how to prune apple trees in this guide. Read more now.

Can You Grow Garlic From Seed?

A horizontal photo of several garlic bulbs and loose cloves in a vintage wooden bowl on a wooden table.

Gardeners usually start garlic from cloves or maybe even the tiny little bulbils, but these plants also grow seeds inside the flower head. Can you use these seeds to propagate new plants? Yes and no. Confused? We’ll explain how to propagate garlic from seed and why you might want to try in this guide. Read more now.

When and How to Fertilize Jasmine

A horizontal close up of a blooming jasmine plant with pale pink flowers.

Jasmine plants are a favorite in the summer garden, climbing freely on trellises for showy, fragrant displays. But if they’re lacking vigor with only a few flowers, you may need to improve your feeding regime. For lush foliage, strong growth, and abundant flowers, learn how and when to fertilize jasmine in this guide.

How to Identify and Manage Willow Galls

A horizontal image of a large weeping willow tree pictured on a blue, slightly cloudy sky background.

Willow trees need full sun to part shade and moist, loamy soil. Even when their cultural requirements are met, growers may face challenges like unsightly galls. These bumpy growths have various causes, including bacteria, fungi, insects, mites, and nematodes. Read on to learn about willow galls and how to manage them.

How to Encourage Chrysanthemums to Bloom Abundantly

A horizontal close up of bright pink chrysanthemum blooms.

A mainstay in the late season garden, chrysanthemums are loved for their cheery blooms in gorgeous fall colors. They’re easy to cultivate but to encourage clouds of colorful flowers, they need a bit of hands-on help from the gardener. Learn top tips to help your chrysanthemums bloom prolifically in this guide. Read more.

How to Propagate Hibiscus

A close up horizontal image of a bright red tropical hibiscus flower pictured in light sunshine on a soft focus background.

Hibiscus shrubs are gorgeous ornamentals that add brightly colored blooms throughout the summer months. Whether you are growing rose of Sharon, hardy, or tropical varieties, they are easy to propagate via stem cuttings, air layering, and sowing seeds. Learn how to propagate hibiscus plants in this guide. Read more now.

When and How to Fertilize Plum Trees

A close up horizontal image of purple, ripe plums growing on the plant pictured in bright sunshine on a soft focus background.

If you’re growing plums, you’ll need to know how and when to fertilize your trees. It takes a lot of nutrition to produce an abundant harvest of juicy fruits, so it’s important to feed at the right time and with the right product. Learn the when and how to fertilize your plum trees in this guide. Read more now.

Do Pansies Bloom All Summer? Care Tips for Hot Weather

A horizontal photo of a mix of colorful summer pansies, ranging from orange blooms to purple to a deep red.

If you love growing pansies in the spring, winter, and fall, you might hope to enjoy their colorful blooms in the summer months as well. Is it possible to grow pansies and violets when it’s hot? Learn all the details about whether pansies bloom all summer and how to care for them during hot weather in this guide.

How to Grow and Care for Weigela Shrubs

A horizontal close up photo of pale pink flowers on a weigela shrub.

Weigela is a woody shrub for USDA Hardiness Zones 4 to 8 with masses of trumpet-like pink, purple, red, white, or yellow blossoms in late spring to early summer. It prefers moderately moist, well-draining soil, and full sun but tolerates partial shade. Learn how to plant and grow weigela in this guide. Read more now.

How to Propagate Ginkgo Trees from Stem Cuttings

A close up horizontal image of a small Ginkgo biloba tree growing in the garden with yellow foliage in autumn.

If you want to faithfully reproduce a ginkgo tree that you love, or you want to fill an area of your landscape with trees on a budget, propagating via cuttings is the best method. It’s efficient, effective, and easy. Learn more about how to propagate Ginkgo biloba from stem cuttings in this guide. Read more now.

Tips for Growing Pink Lady Apples

A close up horizontal image of three ripe Pink Lady apples ripe and ready to harvest pictured in bright sunshine.

Pink Lady apples are delicious as well as being gorgeous to look at with their pink skin over a pale greenish hue. “Pink Lady” is the marketing name for a few different apple cultivars that meet defined criteria. Learn about all the history of these apples and how to grow them at home in this guide. Read more now.

How to Grow and Care for Lupines

A close up horizontal image of a field of pink, purple, and blue lupines in full bloom.

Lupines are dramatic wildflowers or garden ornamentals that are easy to grow plus they fix nitrogen in the soil. Whether you want a low-growing ground cover or a stately upright type for your border, there’s a variety to suit most landscaping needs. Learn how to grow and care for lupines in this guide. Read more now.

How to Propagate Apple Trees

A close up horizontal image of ripe red apples growing on the tree pictured in light evening sunshine.

If you’re growing apple trees, there may come a time when you wish to propagate one of your favorites. There are three main ways to start new apple trees: from seed, via stem cuttings, or by grafting. In this guide, you’ll find step-by-step instructions for each of these three methods and learn the pros and cons. Read more.

11 Reasons (and Solutions!) for Yellow Hibiscus Leaves

A horizontal close up of a hibiscus shrub with pale pinkish-purple blooms and also a few yellowed leaves.

If you’re growing hibiscus and the leaves start to turn yellow, it’s a sign that something is wrong. It could be the result of under- or overwatering, fertilizer issues, temperature extremes, or a disease. Learn about 11 common reasons why your hibiscus plant has yellow leaves and what to do about it in this guide.

29 of the Best Blue Succulent Plants

A close up horizontal image of a collection of different succulents growing in pots indoors, fading to soft focus in the background.

With trailing stems or compact rosettes, succulents come in all shapes and sizes, and many of them are a cooling blue hue. This feature protects these xeric plants, which is why there are so many fabulous blue options available. Discover 29 of the best blue succulents and choose your favorites in this guide. Read more.

How to Identify and Manage Apple Scab Fungus

A close up horizontal image of three apples infected with scab fungus pictured in bright sunshine on a blue sky background.

Apple scab is an extremely common and costly disease that ruins homegrown and commercial harvests alike. Caused by the fungus Venturia inaequalis, this disease can be controlled if you catch it early and keep on top of management. Learn how to identify and address apple scab in this guide. Read more now.

How to Propagate Dahlias from Seed

A close up horizontal image of a single pink and white dahlia flower growing in the garden pictured on a soft focus background.

If you love dahlias, you may not know that you can grow some of these gorgeous flowers from seed. Not only does seed propagation save you some cash, but it also allows you to create beautiful new cultivars that haven’t been seen before! Learn when and how to propagate dahlias from seed in this guide. Read more now.

How to Propagate Succulents from Seed in 9 Easy Steps

A horizontal close up of a variety of succulents in a tray.

If you find succulents fascinating, you might want to try propagating them from seed. However, this gardening project does require a fairly long term commitment, so it’s best to understand the entire process before you get started. Learn how to propagate succulents from seed in 9 steps in this guide. Read more now.

9 Reasons Your Basil Plants Are Wilting and Drooping

A close up horizontal image of the bright green foliage of a healthy basil plant.

Basil, with its versatile flavor, is a must-have in the herb garden. The plants enjoy moist soil and a full sun location and are generally easy to care for. But what do you do if your basil is wilting and drooping? Learn about nine common reasons why basil may wilt and how to resolve it in this guide. Read more now.

When and How to Prune a Weeping Willow

A horizontal photo of a weeping willow tree in the rain growing along a river bank.

The weeping willow is a landscape tree for USDA Hardiness Zones 5 to 9 that grows in full sun to part shade with well-draining, sandy loam. Its branches arch gracefully, often sweeping the ground below. Does this type of tree require pruning? Find out when and how to trim your weeping willow in this guide. Read more.

How to Identify and Prevent Sunscald on Tomatoes

A close up horizontal image of a cluster of tomatoes growing on the vine with droplets on the surface of the fruit, pictured in light evening sunshine, on a soft focus background.

If you notice discoloration on the outside of your tomatoes, they might have sunscald. This problem results in light green, yellow, or brown patches. It’s caused by a combination of heat and too much sunlight. Learn more about this physiological disorder and how to prevent it so you can enjoy perfect tomatoes. Read more.

Tips for Growing Cast Iron Plants (Aspidistra) Outdoors

A close up horizontal image of a top-down view of cast-iron plants (Aspidistra elatior) growing outside in the garden.

Cast-iron plants are popular as low-maintenance houseplants, but they’re just as easy to grow outdoors – if you’re in Zones 7 and above. They’re adaptable, tough, able to tolerate pollution, and thrive in shady spots. Learn how to plant and grow Aspidistra elatior in the landscape with this guide. Read more now.

Learn About 9 Types of Bay Trees

A close up horizontal image of aromatic fresh bay leaves on a wooden chopping board with garlic and other spices.

Sweet bay (Laurus nobilis) isn’t the only plant that goes by this common name. Many species are referred to as “bay,” and lots of them are edible, with a similar flavor to the type we use as a spice. Learn more about nine different bay plants, how they differ from the common type, and whether they are edible. Read more.

How to Grow and Care for Queen Palms

A horizontal image of two queen palms (Syracus romanzoffiana) growing by the side of a large field.

The queen palm (Syagrus romanzoffiana) is an elegant, regal-looking tree that grows up to 50 feet tall. Tolerant of drought and salt spray, this tropical specimen is easy to care for when grown in its preferred Zones of 9 to 11. Learn how to grow and care for queen palms in this guide. Read more now.

How To Propagate Bird of Paradise Plants

A close up horizontal image of colorful bird of paradise (Strelitzia) flowers growing in the landscape in light sunshine.

If you love bird of paradise plants you may wish to consider propagating them at home to increase your stock. Unlike many plants, Strelitzia species can’t be propagated via stem cuttings but you can sow seeds or divide existing plants. Learn more about how to propagate bird of paradise in this guide. Read more now.

Deadheading Petunias: How to Remove Spent Flowers

A close up horizontal image of deep purple petunias growing in a terra cotta pot fading to soft focus in the background.

In time, petunia flowers will eventually fade and expire leaving your plants looking a little scruffy. To maintain a neat and tidy appearance plus promote further blooming, you’ll need to deadhead these spent blooms. Learn when and how to easily and effectively deadhead your petunias in this guide. Read more now.

Why Gladiolus May Fail to Bloom

A close up horizontal image of a bouquet of colorful gladiolus flowers.

Gladiolus are flowering corms that produce colorful blooms in the late summer garden. If you have problems with your gladiolus not flowering, a few simple adjustments can help to restore their showy floral displays. Learn about the common reasons why gladiolus fail to bloom and how to fix it in this guide. Read more.

What Are the Different Types of Chrysanthemums?

A close up horizontal image of different types of chrysanthemum flowers growing in pots at a store.

Autumn-blooming chrysanthemums are perennials native to Asia, often grown as annuals. They are symbols of longevity and prosperity long used in traditional medicine, cooking, and celebrations. Learn more about the 13 types of mums classified by the National Chrysanthemum Society in this guide. Read more now.

How to Identify and Treat 9 Common Dahlia Diseases

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

Dahlias don’t suffer from many diseases compared to some other popular garden flowers but those that do infect these plants can be devastating, with no cure. Learn about nine of the most common bacterial, fungal, and viral diseases that may infect your dahlias and what to do about them in this guide. Read more.

Reasons and Fixes for Fraying and Shedding Palm Fronds

A close up horizontal image of bismark palm trees growing in the garden pictured in light sunshine.

Palms are a diverse group of plants suited to cultivation in Zones 6 to 13 depending on the species. Fronds that are fraying or shedding may be a sign of a problem or could simply be the natural growth tendency of the specific type. Learn about reasons why palm fronds may fray or shed in this guide. Read more now.

When and How to Fertilize Persimmons

A close up horizontal image of ripe orange persimmons growing on the tree with foliage in soft focus in the background.

Fertilizing persimmon trees at the right time and with the right amount of food is a vital part of their cultivation. Underfeeding will reduce your harvest and overfeeding might cause the fruit to drop in established trees. Learn more about the right way to feed your Diospyros trees in this guide. Read more now.

Learn About Dutch Elm Disease

A horizontal photo of branches with dead leaves on a dying elm tree suffering from dutch elm disease. Healthy green leaves fill out the background of the photo.

Want to strike fear into the heart of a tree lover? Mention the words Dutch elm disease. This problem is caused by fungi that is spread by elm beetles and it can spell disaster if you don’t catch it quickly. Learn more about this devastating problem, what to look for, and what you can do about it in this guide. Read more.

23 of the Best Rose Varieties for Creating a Hedge

A horizontal image of a hedge of pink roses growing outside a light blue cottage pictured in bright sunshine on a summer's day.

Using roses to create a hedge gives you a functional and beautiful boundary in the garden. You can create a low-growing hedge covered in fragrant blossoms or a taller one blanketed in bright colors to serve as a privacy screen. Discover 23 of the best rose varieties to grow as a hedge in this guide. Read more now.

How to Identify and Control 9 Common Plum Pests

A close up horizontal image of ripe plums growing on the tree pictured in light sunshine on a soft focus background.

Is something bugging your plum trees? Are you seeing yellow leaves or deformed fruit? Plum pests can range from no big deal to those that can seriously damage your trees and destroy your harvest. Learn about nine of the most common critters to keep an eye out for and how to deal with them in this guide. Read more now.

How to Grow and Care for Ceanothus (California Lilac)

A close up horizontal image of the blue flowers of a Ceanothus California lilac growing in the garden.

Ceanothus aka California lilac plants are suited to cultivation in Zones 4 to 11. They thrive on neglect and produce heaps of blue, purple, violet, or white blossoms anytime from late winter to early summer, depending on the species. Learn how to plant and grow these delightful shrubs in this guide. Read more now.

How to Identify and Treat Pear Scab

A close up horizontal image of a pile of freshly harvested pears infected with scab.

Pear scab is a common fungal disease seen in European pear varieties that can render your fruits inedible. It’s caused by fungi in the Venturia genus and once you know what to look for, the disease is pretty easy to deal with. Learn more about pear scab and how to identify and control it in this guide. Read more now.

How to Grow and Care for Fothergilla

A close up horizontal image of fothergilla in full bloom in the garden.

Fothergilla is a relative of witch hazel that enjoys full sun to partial shade and moist, organically rich soil. Suited to cultivation in Zones 4 to 8, these shrubs have fragrant, white, ribbon-like flowers in the spring and brilliant fall foliage. Learn how to plant and grow fothergilla in this guide. Read more now.

When and How to Thin Fruit on Plum Trees

A close up horizontal image of ripe plums growing in clusters on the tree, pictured in bright sunshine on a soft focus background.

Thinning your plums is a smart way to increase the size of the fruits and the overall health of your tree. It also helps prevent biennial bearing. Timing is key, as is knowing how many plums to remove when you thin them out. Learn when and how to thin plums for bountiful harvests in this guide. Read more now.

When and How to Harvest Bay Leaves

A close up horizontal image of the branches of a bay tree growing in the garden, pictured in light sunshine.

You’ve planted, nurtured, and grown your glorious bay laurel shrub, and now it’s time to start using the leaves in your cooking. But when is the best time to harvest? And which leaves should you pick? How many of them can you take at once? Learn when and how to harvest bay laurel leaves in this guide. Read more now.

How to Identify and Manage Armillaria Root Rot in Pear Trees

A close up horizontal image of two pears ripening on the branch pictured on a soft focus background.

Armillaria crown and root rot is a devastating disease in pears and other fruit trees. It’s caused by a fungus known as Armillaria mellea and infection can prevent water uptake, causing the tree to wilt or in severe cases, die. Learn how to identify and address a honey mushroom infection in this guide. Read more now.

19 of the Best Sunflowers for Pollinators

A close up horizontal image of a butterfly feeding from a red sunflower pictured in light sunshine on a soft focus background.

It’s hard to beat the magnetic draw of the sunflower when it comes to wildlife-friendly plants. These cheery flowers are wildly popular with bees, especially bumble bees, and are an especially good food source for pollinators as summer transitions into fall. Discover 19 of the best sunflowers for pollinators in this guide.

19 of the Best Companion Plants to Grow with Lavender

A close up horizontal image of lavender growing in the garden with a variety of companions.

Lavender is a fragrant, flowering perennial for Zones 4 to 11 that prefers full sun, lean soil, and low moisture. When shopping for companion plants, it is essential to consider cultural requirements before aesthetics. Discover 19 companion plants for lavender to enjoy a manageable and attractive garden scheme. Read more.

How to Prune Anise Hyssop Plants

A close up horizontal image of purple anise hyssop flowers growing in the garden pictured on a soft focus background.

Gardeners who grow anise hyssop in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 to 9 delight in the blossom-laden spikes of blue, lavender, and white in full sun to part shade locations in the landscape. In this guide, we discuss when and how to prune anise hyssop plants to enjoy an exceptional floral display. Read more now.

How to Grow and Care for Nodding Onions (Lady’s Leek)

A close up horizontal image of the petals and flower stems of a pink nodding onion aka lady's leek flower pictured on a soft focus background.

Nodding onion aka lady’s leek (Allium cernuum) is a pretty native wildflower with pendant, purple flowers that bloom in midsummer. This species is tough, tolerant of a variety of soils, cold-hardy, and generally maintenance free, ideal for rock gardens and meadows. Learn how to grow nodding onions in this guide. Read more.

How to Identify and Manage 9 Common Gladiolus Diseases

A close up horizontal image of pretty gladiolus flowers growing in the garden.

Gladiolus flowers aren’t especially prone to problems with diseases, but if your plants are looking a bit worse for wear, they may be infected by pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, or fungi. Learn how to identify the symptoms of nine common gladiolus diseases and what to do about them in this guide. Read more now.

How to Transplant Bird of Paradise Plants

A horizontal close up of a colorful bird of paradise flower head.

If you need to move your bird of paradise plant to a different location in your landscape, you’ll need to do it right to ensure the health of your specimen. In this guide, we’ll cover how to transplant your Strelitzia species, including preparation of the new spot and the ideal time to undertake this task. Read more now.

19 of the Best Prickly Pear (Opuntia) Varieties

A close up horizontal image of a prickly pear (Opuntia) cactus in full bloom pictured in bright sunshine on a blue sky background.

Prickly pear cacti are species in the Opuntia genus, perfect for dry, sunny, water-wise gardens and xeriscaping. Whether you want to grow them for their edible pads and fruit or as spiny ornamentals, there are a number of different types to choose from. Discover 19 of the best opuntia varieties in this guide. Read more.

When and How to Fertilize Cosmos Flowers

A close up horizontal image of bright pink cosmos flowers growing in the garden pictured in strong sunshine.

Cosmos plants thrive in lean soils and harsh environments and are the perfect flowering annuals for water-wise gardens and xeriscapes. They provide a steady show of colorful flowers with little work from the gardener. But do cosmos plants ever need fertilizing? Find out the answer in this guide. Read more now.

How to Identify and Control 15 Persimmon Pests

A close up horizontal image of ripe persimmon fruits growing on the tree.

Persimmon trees are typically pretty easy to care for. They need less fussing and maintenance than some other fruit trees, such as apples, cherries, and pears. However there are several pests that can cause some serious trouble for your persimmons. Learn about 15 common pests that attack these trees in this guide.

17 of the Best Fireblight Resistant Pear Varieties

A close up horizontal image of a wicker basket filled with freshly harvested pears pictured on a green soft focus background.

Fireblight is a devastating and difficult-to-control disease that affects a number of different species. It can kill a pear tree if you don’t catch it quickly enough, but there are some cultivars that are resistant to this disease. Learn about 17 fireblight-resistant pear varieties for your home orchard in this guide.

How to Identify and Control Botrytis Blight in Roses

A horizontal photo of three red rose blooms with signs of botrytis on the petals.

If your roses have gray mold on the foliage or buds, mushy brown flowers, or blackened canes, you could be facing botrytis blight rot. This common fungal pathogen infects roses, strawberries, and many other popular garden species. Learn how to identify and control botrytis rot on roses in this guide. Read more now.

Growing Carrots and Other Hosts for Black Swallowtail Butterflies

A close up horizontal image of a black swallowtail butterfly larva eating a carrot plant.

Interested in growing garden plants to attract black swallowtail butterflies? Members of the carrot family are a favorite of these pollinators, which can make their homes in our gardens at many different stages. Learn more about growing plants in the carrot family for black swallowtail butterflies in this guide. Read more.

33 of the Best Red Rose Varieties to Grow at Home

A close up horizontal image of bright red roses growing in the garden.

Red roses symbolize passion, love, and desire. They can also make quite a bold statement in the landscape. From easygoing ground covers to dramatic climbers, and elegant hybrid teas to the cold-hardiest shrubs, discover 33 of the best red rose varieties for any garden space in this guide. Read more now.

Learn About Bird’s-Nest Orchids

A close up horizontal image of bird's-nest orchids (Neottia nidus-avis) sprouting on the forest floor in spring, pictured on a soft focus background.

Bird’s-nest orchids have an almost ghostly appearance, nothing like the familiar potted orchids you find in the store. These unique plants can’t be cultivated at home as they have a special relationship with soilborne fungi and grow wild in very specific ecosystems. Learn more about bird’s-nest orchids in this guide.

How to Propagate Bleeding Hearts from Stem Cuttings

A horizontal close up of a bleeding heart branch with bright pink blooms down the length of the branch.

If you love bleeding hearts, perhaps you want more of them to grow in your garden. These are some of the easiest plants to propagate via cuttings thanks to their herbaceous stems. Learn when and how to take stem cuttings from your bleeding hearts, propagate more plants, and transplant them into the garden. Read more now.

When and How to Harvest Zucchini

A horizontal photo of a ripe, ready-to-harvest zucchini in a garden.

Easy to grow, everyone’s favorite green summer squash is also a breeze to pick with the right technique. You can’t just tear these vegetables off the vine, a more refined approach is required. You’ll also want to make sure you get your timing right. Learn more about how to harvest zucchini in this guide. Read more now.

How to Identify and Manage 3 Common Fuchsia Diseases

A horizontal close up of two light pink and light purple fuchsia blooms on a plant.

Fuchsia plants aren’t troubled by too many pathogens, but those few that do occur can cause major problems. Botrytis blight (gray mold), damping off, and rust can all result in leaf drop, fungal growth, a lack of flowers, and even plant death. Learn about these 3 common diseases and how to deal with them in our guide.

What Is a Flowering Flush? All About Plant Bloom Cycles

A close up horizontal image of hydrangea flowers growing in the garden pictured in light evening sunshine.

In gardening parlance, there are a number of phrases that are commonly used, without a clear explanation of what it means. “Flowering flush” is one such phrase. In this guide, we’ll discuss what exactly a flowering flush is, what plants exhibit this behavior, and how you can encourage repeat blooming. Read more now.

When and How to Deadhead Cosmos Flowers

A horizontal close up of purplish-pink cosmos growing in a garden.

Cosmos are gorgeous annual or perennial flowers that no garden should be without. When you grow these wispy summertime plants in your flower beds or among your vegetable crops, you might wonder if you should remove the faded blooms or not. Learn more about deadheading cosmos flowers in this guide. Read more now.

Should You Deadhead Daylilies?

A close up horizontal image of a single daylily flower growing in the garden with a spent bloom behind it flanked with foliage.

Flowering daylilies grace summer landscapes in USDA Hardiness Zones 3 to 9, thriving in full sun and well-draining soil. Fountain-like foliage boasts abundant blooms, each appearing for one day, followed by many more for a continuous display. Learn whether deadheading is beneficial for daylilies in this guide. Read more.

How to Identify and Control Hollyhock Weevils

A close up horizontal image of a single, black hollyhock weevil (Rhopalapion longirostre) on the surface of a leaf.

Hollyhock weevils are common garden pests and an infestation can turn your plants into a damaged mess. These small weevils feed on hollyhock foliage and flowers, then lay their eggs in the seed pods, resulting in ugly plants. Learn how to identify and eliminate these annoying pests in this guide. Read more now.

9 of the Best Evening Primrose Varieties

A horizontal close up of a bed of yellow primrose blooms.

With delicate, goblet-shaped flowers that bloom late in the day, evening primroses are a delightful addition to the landscape. These tough perennials are native to North and South America and there are a number of different species to choose from. Learn about 9 of the best evening primrose varieties in this guide.

Tips for Growing Boston Ferns Outdoors

A close up horizontal image of potted Boston ferns set on a patio outdoors.

Boston ferns are popular houseplants, with their elegant, arching, blade-shaped fronds. These tropical ferns can thrive outdoors in USDA Hardiness Zones 9 to 11, and are typically low-maintenance additions to the landscape. Learn how to grow and care for Boston ferns outdoors in the garden in this guide. Read more now.

How to Grow and Care for Fruiting Quince

A horizontal close up of a tree full of ripe quince fruit.

Quince is an ancient fruit that had a period of massive popularity over a century ago. The decadently fragrant and extremely flavorful fruits are making a huge comeback as gourmands seek them out for all kinds of culinary uses. Learn how to plant and grow your own quince trees in this guide. Read more now.