How to Grow Cauliflower, a Challenging Cool-Weather Crop

A close up horizontal image of a small cauliflower head developing in the garden.

Cauliflower has a reputation for being a difficult cool-weather crop to grow, but don’t let that stop you. With an understanding of temperature and watering needs, you’ll soon be cultivating white, purple, orange, and green varieties packed with antioxidants and vitamin C. Learn how to grow your own cauliflower now.

How to Grow and Care for Lacecap Hydrangea Bushes

A close up horizontal image of blue lacecap hydrangea flowers.

Hydrangeas are woody shrubs or vines with showy clusters of blossoms. They grow best in full sun to part shade, where the soil is consistently moist. There are nearly 80 different species and several bloom styles. Learn more about the lacecap hydrangea, and what makes it unique in this guide. Read more now.

How to Water Peace Lily Houseplants

A close up of three small peace lily plants growing indoors set on a wooden surface.

If you’re growing tropical peace lilies as houseplants, you’ll need to know how to keep them properly hydrated. While they are generally easy to grow, these houseplants can sometimes be finicky about hydration. Learn when and how to water your peace lily plants to keep them happy and thriving, in this guide. Read more.

How to Water Tropical Nepenthes Pitcher Plants

A close up horizontal image of Nepenthes pitcher plants growing in a pot indoors.

While tropical Nepenthes pitcher plants make stunning conversation pieces when grown in our homes, caring for them may prove to be a challenge for some houseplant enthusiasts. Watering appropriately is a common struggle, but it needn’t be! Read more now to learn the best practices to keep them thriving.

How to Grow Eggplant in Containers

A close up horizontal image of a row of containers with purple eggplants.

Eggplant is a delicious, nutritious warm-weather crop. If you want to harvest homegrown eggplant for your pasta dishes, curries, and more, but don’t have room in your garden, why not try growing it in containers? Planting in pots saves garden space and helps extend the growing season. Read more now.

How to Grow Tropical Nepenthes Pitcher Plants Indoors

A close up horizontal image of Nepenthes pitcher plants pictured on a soft focus background.

Tropical pitcher plants may have caught your interest, whether you’re obsessed with houseplant keeping or planning to select just a few to bring home. As long as you understand their specific needs and you’re prepared to provide a moderate level of maintenance, you can learn to keep them healthy and thriving indoors.

To Repot or Not: Why, When, and How to Repot Norfolk Island Pine Trees

A close up horizontal image of a small Norfolk Island pine in a red pot.

Norfolk pines are beautiful, easy-care houseplants that can serve double duty as living Christmas trees. But after the holidays are over, you might wonder whether you need to repot this lovely conifer – or not. To learn when, how, and why to repot your Norfolk Island pine tree, keep reading. We share all the details.

How to Propagate Dracaena Houseplants

A close up horizontal image of the foliage of a Dracaena plant.

Dracaena is a houseplant that is happy when you forget to water it, and it will keep on keepin’ on when you put it in a dark corner. That’s our kind of houseplant – and we say, the more the merrier! You’re in luck, because dracaena propagation is as easy as 1-2-3. Read all about it in this guide.

How to Grow and Care For Japanese Holly

A close up horizontal image of Japanese holly foliage and berries growing in the garden.

Japanese hollies are essentially maintenance-free and untroubled by pests or disease. Deer and rabbits just hop on by, and your pruners will gather dust in the shed, because they maintain a tidy shape without any work from you – unless you plan to shape them into elaborate topiaries, and that’s great too! Read more.

How to Grow and Shape Ponytail Palms as Bonsai

A close up horizontal image of a small ponytail palm growing indoors in a terra cotta pot.

The ponytail palm makes a unique visual statement thanks to its strap-like foliage, scaly trunk, and bulbous base. When grown as a bonsai, it stands out even more. Plus, it can be grown indoors and can withstand some neglect. That’s why it has become a popular option for beginners and more advanced artists alike!

How to Grow and Care for Florist’s Azaleas Indoors

A close up horizontal image of florist's azalea flowers growing in a pot.

Maybe you received a florist’s azalea as a gift, or you saw the bright-blooming beauty in the store and decided to give it a home? Maybe you’ve heard these azaleas don’t typically last long, but what if you could help yours to live a long life? We’ll show you how to do just that. Read about growing azaleas indoors now.

How to Propagate ZZ Plants from Leaf Cuttings

A close up horizontal image of a ZZ plant growing in a large terra cotta pot.

Zamioculcas zamiifolia, or ZZ plant for short, is incredibly easy to grow, propagate, and share, making an ideal houseplant for beginner gardeners. With just a little bit of patience, you can create many new plants from a single parent. Continue reading to learn how to start ZZ plants from leaf cuttings.

Why Anthurium Houseplants Droop and What to Do About It

A close up horizontal image of red anthuriums growing in pots indoors.

Why does your anthurium look wilted? Causes could include too much or too little water, insufficient humidity, root rot, scorching from direct light, or maybe mealybugs or whiteflies. Here’s how to determine the causes when this tropical houseplant starts to droop, and how to revive your anthurium if it’s possible.

How to Grow and Care for English Holly

A close up horizontal image of English holly with red berries growing in the garden.

English holly puts the jolly in holiday decor. The cheery red berries brighten early winter landscapes and sustain songbirds, while the evergreen foliage is a must in wreaths and cut arrangements. Read more now to learn how to grow this Christmas holly as a tree or trained shrub, from transplanting to pest control.

How to Plant and Grow Brussels Sprouts

A close up horizontal image of brussels sprouts ready to harvest pictured in light sunshine.

Are you a fan of Brussels sprouts? Gotten over your childhood hatred of the green gems? Homegrown sprouts taste even better than the ones you’ll find at the store. They’re challenging to grow, but the flavor is well worth the effort. Don’t be discouraged, find your way to success with sprouts now in this guide.

Juniper Herbal Uses: Put This Natural Powerhouse to Work for You

A close up horizontal image of a bowl of juniper berries and foliage set on a dark gray surface.

Juniper has been used herbally for centuries. Even King Tut had some of the berries from the trees in his tomb. Whether you want to make a wound-healing salve or some tea to ease a cold, the needles and berries have the potential to help. Not all species are useful herbally, though. This guide has what to know.

13 Juniper Berry Uses in the Kitchen and Beyond

A close up of a cluster of juniper berries set on a wooden surface.

Juniper berries are the unsung heroes of the spice world. They can flavor everything from drinks to savory dishes and even desserts. And they can also be used herbally, to make sourdough, and around the home. Whether you forage or purchase them, our guide will help you to make the most of the pungent fruits. Read more.

How to Grow and Care for Cyclamen Houseplants

A close up horizontal image of colorful cyclamen flowers.

Cyclamen makes a colorful indoor plant for winter that blooms through to spring, when most flowering plants are dormant. It comes in bold shades of red, pink, and purple, with heart-shaped green or variegated foliage. Read on to learn how to care for a potted cyclamen indoors and enjoy vibrant color all winter long.

How to Grow and Care for a Grape Ivy Houseplant

A close up horizontal image of a grape ivy plant in a hanging basket on a dark background.

Do you want to add a tropical vine to your houseplant collection? Look no further than grape ivy, an easy-care member of the grape family. Grape ivy will forgive many a blunder and remain a steadfast friend for years. In this guide, we’ll show you what you need to know to grow these viney beauties. Read more now.

The Right Way to Water Anthurium Houseplants

A close up horizontal image of anthurium plants growing indoors.

How much water do anthuriums need? These colorful, tropical houseplants require ample humidity and moist soil, but too much water will harm them. Help them to thrive indoors with well-draining soil and proper pots, learn how often to water, and decode signs that your plant is getting too much water, or too little.

When and How to Harvest Juniper Berries

A close up horizontal image of a small bowl filled with juniper berries.

Juniper berries can be used herbally, in the kitchen, or around the home. But harvesting them requires knowing the right time and method for plucking the fruits. Additionally, you should know with certainty that the species you are harvesting is suitable for your purposes. Our guide provides the details. Read more.

Healthy and Tasty: How to Grow Alfalfa Sprouts and Microgreens at Home

A close up horizontal image of alfalfa microgreens.

Fresh alfalfa sprouts or microgreens grown at home are healthy and tasty. In the cold months, they’re a welcome source of fresh produce. And this indoor gardening project is simple enough for beginners and kids, with results in days. Here are the basic how-to’s, along with advice on food safety and some recipe ideas.

Are All Juniper Berries Safe to Eat?

A horizontal image of a hand from the left of the frame harvesting a branch from a juniper shrub.

Yes, juniper berries are edible. Well, most of them. Many species are not just safe to eat, they’re delicious. But some, on the other hand, can be toxic. In this guide, we’ll help you figure out which is which so you can harvest the good ones and leave the ones that are bad (for humans!) for the birds who love them.

How to Grow and Care for Bonsai Fruit Trees

A close up horizontal image of a fruit tree growing as a bonsai.

Want a truly stunning bonsai that offers a challenge with an incredibly fulfilling reward? Consider growing a fruit tree species as a bonsai. It takes a little extra work beyond that required by your average bonsai, but the results are absolutely worth it. A miniature tree with full-sized fruit is a sight to behold!

3 Foolproof Ways to Propagate Pothos Plants (And One That Doesn’t Work)

A close up horizontal image of a pothos plant spilling over the side of a pot.

Pothos plants are extremely straightforward to propagate. They lend themselves well to cloning via cuttings or dividing. Seeds, on the other hand, are a different proposition. If you’re curious about how to make lots of healthy new pothos babies, this guide shows you what you should know, and what doesn’t work.

Pruning Bonsai 101: How to Shape Your Plants

A close up horizontal image of a gardener pruning a bonsai tree.

Pruning a bonsai well requires equal parts technical skill and artistic vision. You need to know how to prune the plant without damaging it so you can bring the living piece of art that you dream of to life. In this guide, we’ll help you to achieve both goals with a little bit of technical and creative guidance.

How to Propagate Norfolk Island Pine

A close up horizontal image of two small Norfolk Island pine trees in pots indoors.

Norfolk Island pine trees are in the spotlight during the Christmas holiday season, but they make easy-care houseplants all year long. And if you want more of these conifers, they aren’t hard to propagate either. There are a few different methods you can use to propagate these trees – keep reading to learn more.

How and When to Prune a Juniper Shrub

A close up horizontal image of a hand from the left of the frame pruning a juniper shrub.

Pruning junipers the right way takes a bit of finesse and know-how. If you do it wrong, you can end up with a sad-looking skeleton of a plant, rather than a robust shrub that adds to your garden. You need to know when, how, and which branches to prune if you want to keep your plant healthy and looking good. Read more.

Blue Star Juniper: How to Grow These Hardy Garden Staples

A close up horizontal image of blue star juniper growing in a garden border.

‘Blue Star’ junipers practically glow in the garden with their bright, steely blue foliage. Add to that their dense, mounding growth habit and extremely tough nature, and you have a plant that adds heaps of year-round character to your yard without much fuss. Get to know this happy accident and how to care for it.

How to Root Aloe Vera Cuttings and Separate Pups

A close up horizontal image of aloe vera plants growing in pots outdoors.

For inexpensive succulent houseplants that grow quickly and are easy to care for, learn to root aloe vera cuttings from single leaves or divide pups from parent plants. The gel from the leaves soothes burns, and the starts you propagate make great gifts for indoor gardeners. Learn how to propagate aloe in this guide.

Tips for Watering Norfolk Island Pine Trees

A close up horizontal image of a small Norfolk Island pine in a red pot set on a wooden surface.

Norfolk Island pines make festive houseplants, and they will brighten your home long after the holidays have passed. But it’s important to develop a good watering routine as soon as you bring your tree home. Learn about Norfolk Island pine water requirements and how to keep them healthy all year long. Read more now.

9 of the Best Pomegranate Varieties to Grow at Home

A close up horizontal image of ripe pomegranates growing in the garden.

Most of us are accustomed to the red pomegranates seen in the grocery store, but a variety of colors and flavors are available to grow aside from the old standby. There are over 500 known cultivars in existence, so which one is right for your yard? Discover 9 of the best pomegranate varieties to grow at home. Read more.

How and When to Prune Your Fiddle-Leaf Fig

A close up horizontal image of the foliage of a fiddle-leaf fig in a pot indoors.

If you love your fiddle-leaf fig but also feel a little intimidated by it, you’re not alone. It’s a notoriously finicky plant, and when it comes to pruning, the task can feel impossible. But pruning your fiddle-leaf fig is an important part of its care, and it’s not difficult to do. Learn all about it now in our guide.

Tips for Growing Violets, Violas, and Pansies Indoors

A close up horizontal image of pansies growing indoors pictured on a soft focus background.

Flowers in the Viola genus – violets, violas, and pansies – are some of the easiest flowers to grow. So why not grow them indoors? Extend the growing season or simply add some cheer to your indoor window sills by planting and growing violets as houseplants. We’ll cover all you need to know in this guide. Read more now.

How to Grow Sorrel, A Lemony, Lively Perennial Herb

A close up horizontal image of sorrel growing in the garden.

When you grow lemony perennial sorrel in your garden, you’ll have a supply of baby greens and fresh herbs all year long. Garden, French, and red-veined sorrels are standouts for container gardeners and edible landscaping, too. Our guide covers planting from seed, preserving, and dividing this versatile herb. Read more.

How to Grow Lilacs in Pots and Planters

A close up horizontal image of a bouquet of purple lilacs in a vase indoors.

With generous panicles of beautiful, fragrant flowers, the allure of lilacs is powerful. If you don’t have the space for a mature, 30-foot specimen, a good option is to grow dwarf varieties in containers – a smart solution for decks, patios, and other small spaces. Learn how to grow lilacs in pots and planters here.

The Best Hellebore Planting Companions

A close up horizontal image of white hellebores growing in the winter garden.

The hellebore is a classic and classy addition to all but the sunniest gardens. But it’s at its best when it has the right planting companions nearby to help it to show off and shine. Learn all about the hellebore’s best annual, perennial, and tree and shrub planting companions in this guide. Read more now.

Why Is There a Red Sheath on My Ficus Elastica? Do Rubber Trees Flower?

A close up horizontal image of a red sheath on a ficus plant.

In spring and summer, your healthy, actively growing Ficus elastica, or rubber tree, may send up a red sheath that appears to be a bud. While the rubber tree can produce a type of inflorescence, this is rare for plants grown indoors. So, if it’s not a bud, what other purpose could that sheath possibly serve?

29 of the Most Fabulous Types of Hoya Plant

A close up horizontal image of a variety of different potted Hoya plant species.

Hoyas provide beautiful foliage in a dizzying array of shapes, colors, and textures. Whether you want just one plant or you’re ready to start or expand a collection, narrow your choices by learning about the many cultivars and species available. Discover 29 of the most fabulous types of hoyas for your home now.

How to Overwinter Gardenia Shrubs Indoors

A horizontal image of a gardenia plant in a small pot indoors.

When you garden in an area where gardenia shrubs are not cold hardy, you can keep them alive and flowering year-round by overwintering them indoors. This guide explains how to protect gardenias from frost, when to move them inside ahead of freezing temperatures, and how to care for them indoors during the cold months.

Catnip vs. Catmint – What’s the Difference?

A horizontal image of purple catnip growing in the garden.

Are catnip and catmint different plants? Though these herbaceous perennials in the mint family have many similarities, Nepeta cataria is a distinct species that serves a different purpose in the garden than other types of Nepeta. Learn how to differentiate between these commonly mixed up herbs in this guide. Read more now.

Can You Regrow Parsnips from Kitchen Scraps?

A close up horizontal image of freshly dug parsnips on a dark gray surface.

Is it really possible to regrow parsnips and other root vegetables from scraps, or is it just a bunch of internet hype? While you may be able to grow fresh foliage from leftover tops, don’t expect the plant to produce new roots. Continue reading to learn more about growing parsnips from kitchen scraps.

How to Grow and Care for Pitcher Plants

A horizontal image of pitcher plants growing outdoors in a forest location.

Carnivorous pitcher plants are incredible in both form and function. Are you considering adding some to your landscape? Once you understand their distinctive needs, you’ll be ready to propagate and plant a few, whether in a naturally occurring wetland area or as part of your very own bog garden. Read more now.

My Pothos Leaves Are Turning Yellow! What’s Wrong and What to Do

A close up horizontal image of the yellow leaves on a diseased pothos plant.

What causes pothos leaves to turn yellow? Improper watering can lead to root rot that can kill your devil’s ivy houseplant. Find out when a golden color is natural, why plants might get sick, and what to do about it when you see yellow. To avoid root rot and keep pothos plants healthy, follow these preventive tips.

How to Grow Verbena in the South or Southwest

A close up horizontal image of the purple flowers of verbena visited by a butterfly.

Verbena’s delicate, colorful flowers make them a popular pick in many parts of the country, but these plants have varying requirements depending on where they are grown. If you’re in the south or southwestern part of the US, check out this guide to growing and caring for verbena in warm zones. Read more now.

How to Grow and Care for American Holly Trees

A close up horizontal image of the berries and foliage of American holly.

If you’ve never tried growing American holly before, you’re in for something special. With glossy leaves and bright red berries, nothing says winter cheer quite like this plant. But is it hard to grow? How do you encourage the bushes to produce berries? Learn everything you need to know in our guide. Read more now.

9 of the Best Companion Plants for Kohlrabi

A close up horizontal image of a kohlrabi plant growing in the vegetable garden.

Some of the best kohlrabi companions may provide pest control, enrich the soil, or conserve water, and they look appealing next to this purple or light green cool-season veggie too. Our guide shares the most beneficial companions to plant next to this offbeat above-ground brassica, and which plants make bad neighbors.

Identify and Manage 5 Common Chestnut Tree Diseases

A close up horizontal image of the diseased foliage of a chestnut tree.

Are your chestnut trees looking a little, shall we say, under the weather? Maybe you’ve noticed wilting leaves, or nuts that rot in their shells. Learn how to identify, prevent, and manage five common diseases that may afflict chestnut trees, with recommendations for selecting resistant varieties. Read more now.

How to Grow and Care for Elegant Lady Palms

A close up horizontal image of a lady palm growing indoors pictured in light sunshine.

Do you want to bring the look of the tropics into your home, but you don’t want to deal with a tender plant that can’t handle a little bit of cold weather, or something that will succumb to pests and diseases? Lady palms (Rhapis excelsa) are an excellent option, with beautiful palm fronds and a tough nature.

How to Grow and Care for Sundew Plants Indoors

A close up horizontal image of an insect trapped by a carnivorous sundew plant pictured in light sunshine on a soft focus background.

Sundew is a carnivorous plant that has adapted to bog environments all over the world by sourcing nutrients in an extraordinary way. You’ll need to replicate the necessary growing conditions and learn its special requirements to keep it as a houseplant – but it’s worth it if you enjoy truly distinctive plants.

How to Grow and Train Dracaena Plants as Bonsai

A close up horizontal image of the foliage of a dracaena plant growing in a container.

If you’re looking for an easy-to-grow beginner bonsai plant that can stay indoors all year long, dracaenas fit the bill. That’s because they’re simple to care for and undemanding when it comes to light, food, and water, even inside your home – perfect if you’re just dipping your toe into the art of bonsai. Read more.

How to Grow and Care for Winter Jasmine

A horizontal image of winter jasmine growing in the garden.

Winter jasmine was cultivated in China for hundreds of years before becoming a common landscaping plant in many other parts of the world. Not only does it bloom in the winter when most other plants are dormant, it is very tolerant of neglect, so even inexperienced gardeners find it easy to grow. Read more now.

17 of the Best Species of Peperomia to Grow at Home

A close up horizontal image of different types of peperomia.

Peperomias come in a huge range of sizes, shapes, leaf textures, and growth habits. There are species that look like succulents, and others that have lush, textured foliage. Whatever you’re looking for, there’s probably a radiator plant to fit the bill. Learn about 17 of the best peperomia varieties to grow at home.

How to Grow and Care for Venus Flytrap Houseplants

Close up up the leaves of a venus flytrap closing around a fly.

The Venus flytrap is a marvel of the botanical world. While most plants feed from their roots and require nutrient-rich soil, this plant chooses to lure and devour insects to get what it needs. This incredible evolutionary trait has made it a favorite for those who collect and grow distinctive plants. Read more.

Do You Need to Protect Lettuce from Frost in the Garden?

A close up horizontal image of lettuce under a covering of frost.

Lettuce thrives in cool weather, but is frost too much for this leafy green? In this guide, we share the most frost-tolerant lettuce varieties to grow in your garden, along with ways to protect salad greens in freezing temperatures. Avoiding frozen roots is the key to fresh lettuce through fall and into the winter.

How to Grow and Care for Chestnuts

A horizontal image of a large chestnut tree growing in the garden.

Love chestnuts? Why not grow your own! With several varieties to choose from, they can be planted in sandy loam with full sun and good drainage. Homegrown chestnuts are a delight, whether roasted, boiled, or dried and ground into flour. Learn everything you need to know about growing and caring for these magnificent trees.

Must-Have Tips for Growing Inkberry Holly

A close up horizontal image of inkberry holly growing in the garden pictured in bright sunshine.

Inkberry holly is an evergreen shrub with small white flowers in the spring. By autumn, blue-black drupes, or berry-like fruits, make a late-season feast for foraging birds. Inkberry holly is easy to add to the landscape, especially with these tips for successful cultivation. Ready to grow your own? Read more.

English Ivy Houseplants: How to Care For Hedera Helix Indoors

A close up horizontal image of an English ivy plant trailing over the side of a white pot.

Charming ivy is tough as nails outdoors. Most gardeners spend more time trying to contain it than they do nurturing it. But it’s a different story indoors. This classic plant needs food, water, and the right light, of course, but special care is required if you want to raise it as a houseplant. Read more now.

How to Plant and Grow Celery Root (Celeriac)

A close up horizontal image of celeriac roots in a pile.

If you’ve never tried celeriac, you’re in for a treat. This crisp cousin to celery is the perfect root vegetable for making soups and fries, or for eating raw in a salad. But is it hard to grow? Is it just like growing celery? Learn everything you need to know to grow your own celery root in our guide. Read more now.

How to Care for Heuchera in the Winter

A close up horizontal image of heuchera plants covered in a light dusting of snow.

Completing garden winter care tasks can be one of the busiest weekends of the year, but plants like heuchera offer you some free time by demanding very little. Outside of a few basic considerations, you can invite these plants into your garden and expect year-round interest with minimal work. Read more now.

Worth Its Stripes: How to Grow and Care for Calathea Zebrina Plants

A close up horizontal image of a Calathea zebrina growing in a pot.

Calathea zebrina is a tropical prayer plant that’s grown for its striking striped foliage. It may have a reputation as a slightly fussy houseplant, but it’s easy to keep happy and beautiful when you know what it needs. You’ll find all the tips and tricks to growing the lovely calathea zebrina in this guide. Read more.

Pick Early and Often: How to Harvest Mustard Greens

A close up horizontal image of mustard greens growing in the garden.

Harvest the tastiest mustard greens by picking early and often. These fast-growing Asian and Southern greens may be best at microgreen, baby leaf, or full size, depending on the variety. Just don’t let them get too large and bitter. Here’s how to pick broadleaf, tatsoi, and mizuna types at their peak.

Tips for Calla Lily Winter Care

A close up horizontal image of purple and white call lilies growing in the garden.

Colorful and elegant, calla lilies are tender herbaceous perennials that can stay in-ground in areas with mild temperatures but must be lifted in cold weather. Easy to grow with bright blooms and a long flowering season, winterizing these rhizomes is simple as well. Learn all about calla lily winter care right here.

How and When to Fertilize Fruiting Pomegranates

A horizontal image of ripe pomegranates growing on the tree.

Pomegranate plants are native to arid regions where soil can sometimes lack nutrients. While they can withstand poor, deficient soil, they’ll be healthier and more productive when the soil they grow in is healthy and nutrient-dense. Learn how to improve soil fertility to grow productive pomegranates that thrive.

7 Hardy Salad Greens for Winter Gardens

A close up horizontal image of lettuce growing in the garden covered in a light dusting of frost.

Cold weather doesn’t have to put an end to the gardening season. There are plenty of frost-tolerant leafy greens that can be grown easily, well into the winter months. Continue reading for a list of yummy salad greens to grow in cold conditions, as well as some important factors to consider when growing winter greens.

Pomegranate Propagation: The Best Methods to Grow Your Own Trees

A close up horizontal image of pomegranates growing in the garden.

Whether your goal is to grow just one tree or enough to fill an orchard, like most fruit trees, pomegranates grow best via certain propagation methods. Learn which tried and true techniques can produce plants that are clones of the parent plant, and how results may vary. Then give them a try at home! Read more now.

How to Grow and Harvest a Winter Parsnip Crop

A close up horizontal image of freshly harvested parsnips set on the ground.

There aren’t many veggies you can harvest fresh from the soil in the dead of winter. For the most part, the growing season is long gone. But parsnips can survive even the bitter cold and they taste better for it. In this guide, we’ll help you figure out when to plant and how to harvest this underappreciated root crop.

How to Overwinter Cold-Hardy Swiss Chard

A close up horizontal image of Swiss chard growing in the fall garden.

Nutritious, prolific, and easy to grow, Swiss chard is a productive biennial that can be overwintered and harvested for a second growing season in areas with cool or mild winters. But they do best with a little outside help to ensure survival in frigid conditions. Learn how to overwinter cold-hardy Swiss chard here.

Propagating Pomegranates from Seed: A Rewarding Project with Variable Results

A close up horizontal image of pomegranate trees growing in the garden.

Want to grow your own fresh fruit, or are you looking for a fun project to do with the kids? Pomegranates can be grown from seed, producing variable but potentially worthwhile results. In the right climate, they can be grown outdoors in the ground or a container, or brought inside to overwinter. Read more now.

Bok Choy vs. Baby Bok Choy: What’s the Difference?

A close up horizontal image of bok choy in a wicker basket.

If you’re wondering if there’s any difference between bok choy and baby bok choy, we can assure you that there is, indeed, a difference. But it’s not as major as you might think. In this guide, find out what sets baby bok choy apart from its full-size counterpart and explore our favorite baby varieties. Read more now.

How Long Can You Keep a Pumpkin? Post-Harvest Storage Tips

A close up horizontal image of freshly harvested pumpkins.

Don’t let homegrown pumpkins rot before you can cook or carve them! Store the pumpkin harvest in a way that maximizes shelf life and flavor. This guide tells how long you can keep competition, pie, and jack-o’-lantern pumpkins after picking, and shares tips for storing them through Halloween – or even December.

How to Care for Agapanthus Plants in Winter

A close up horizontal image of agapanthus growing in a garden border.

If you’re a gardener in Zones 6 through 9 and you’re growing agapanthus, you may be wondering how to keep the plant alive during cold winter months. Does it matter if your agapanthus is deciduous or evergreen? Should you pot the plant and bring it indoors? In this guide, we answer all this and more. Read more now.

How to Get Started with Your First Bonsai Tree

A close up horizontal image of a bonsai tree set on a wooden table with pruning tools.

Considering dipping your toe into the world of bonsai, or maybe you just picked up your first one at the store? You probably know there’s lots to do to keep your plant healthy, but growing your first bonsai doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You’ll be well on your way to creating a stunning display with these basics.

9 Diseases That Can Destroy Your Swiss Chard

A horizontal image of colorful Swiss chard growing in a garden border.

Homegrown Swiss chard does double duty with its beautiful stems and incredible flavor. But disease can ruin its appealing appearance and its fantastic flavor, denying you the harvest you’ve worked so hard for. A little prevention goes a long way, but if disease still takes hold, there are things you can do. Read more.

7 Reasons Why Homegrown Celery May Be Skinny

A close up horizontal image of celery growing in the vegetable patch.

Celery is not the easiest plant to grow. The seeds are tiny and have to sit on top of loose, organically-rich soil to germinate in sunlight. And sometimes, the crunchy ribs you’ve been waiting for turn out to be thin and dry instead of plump and juicy. Read on for 7 reasons for skinny celery and how you can avoid it.

How to Grow Parsnips From Seed

A close up horizontal image of freshly harvested parsnips set on the ground.

Parsnip seeds have a reputation for being hard to germinate. Lots of gardeners complain that they’re a challenge to tease out of the ground. The truth is, you just need to know the right steps for making it happen and you can find reliable success. Fresh seeds, a good soak, and some patience will have you on your way.

How to Prepare Bleeding Hearts for Winter

A horizontal image of a large bleeding heart in full bloom.

Your bleeding hearts bloomed nicely during the spring and then the foliage turned yellow before dying back in the summer heat. Now it’s fall and you aren’t sure how to prepare them for the winter. Should you cut them back? Mulch them? What about water? Learn everything you need to know in our guide. Read more.

How to Identify and Control Pomegranate Pests and Diseases

A close up horizontal image of ripe pomegranates growing in the garden.

Pest infestation and disease are unfortunately common among fruit trees, though pomegranates manage to dodge a large number of both. While you’ll need to remain vigilant for signs of distress, you can treat many common issues that may arise. Learn what to look for and how to intervene to help your pomegranates thrive.

What Causes Pomegranate Fruits to Crack or Split?

A horizontal image of pomegranates cracking open on the tree.

When you’ve already waited six months or more for pomegranates to ripen, it can be disheartening to see them cracking or splitting open before harvest. Fortunately, there are several measures you can take to coax those long-season fruits through to maturity! Learn what factors lead to cracking and how to prevent it.

Understanding and Managing Cabbage Black Rot

A close up horizontal image of a cabbage leaf showing symptoms of black rot.

Cabbage black rot is a devastating cruciferous vegetable disease that begins subtly. Its signature foliar discoloration starts at the leaf margins, and usually goes unnoticed until it is so extensive that an affected plant cannot be salvaged. Read on for all you need to know to recognize and manage cabbage black rot.

How to Grow Wood Anemone Flowers for Shady Areas

A horizontal image of a large swath of wood anemones growing in a woodland.

American and European wood anemones add beauty to the garden in early spring, fading away by midsummer to go dormant and then return as perennials the following year. These spring ephemerals are perfect for growing in wooded areas with dappled shade and moist soil. Read more now to learn how to grow your own.

How to Overwinter Onions Planted in the Fall

A close up horizontal image of onions sprouting in the garden.

Most onions are cold hardy, but some are known to withstand very low temperatures and freezing, powering through the winter chill for a more robust spring harvest. With a well-chosen planting site, you can easily produce a crop from seeds or sets, and avoid losing your crop to many types of pests and disease.

Are Petunias Cold Hardy? Tips for Outdoor Winter Care

A close up horizontal image of petunias covered in a dusting of snow.

Petunias are not cold hardy, and they grow as perennials only in Zones 9-11. But even in cooler climates, you can maximize their blooming season outdoors with a few preparations. Follow these strategies for preparing petunias for cool weather, and you’ll have waves of blooms well into autumn. Read more now.

Tips for Growing Parsnips in Containers

A close up horizontal image of freshly harvested parsnips set on the surface of the soil.

Parsnips are earthy, tasty, often overlooked root vegetables that shine in a variety of dishes. If you want to grow this cousin to carrots and parsley, you might wonder if you have space in the garden. But you don’t need it! You can grow parsnips in containers instead. Learn everything you need to know in our guide.

Do You Have To Tie Up Cabbage Heads?

A close up horizontal image of a red cabbage growing in the garden.

Should you tie up cabbage leaves? While it’s not a mandatory step in growing cabbage, tying the outer leaves may be beneficial in certain situations. It can help protect heads from pests and sun, saves space, and could potentially result in tighter heads. Continue reading to learn how and when to tie up cabbage leaves.

How to Save Pumpkin Seeds to Plant in Your Garden

A close up horizontal image of pumpkin seeds scooped out and set on a tray to save the seeds.

Collect, sort, dry, and store pumpkin seeds from open-pollinated varieties and you’ll have an abundant supply to sow for years to come. Some will still germinate after six years! Find directions here for timing and storage techniques, along with cautions about varieties that don’t work for seed savers. Read more.

Gardeners, Beware! All Parts of Oleander Are Poisonous When Eaten

A close up horizontal image of pink oleander flowers pictured in light sunshine.

When you grow oleander in your landscape, beware! All parts of the plant, from roots to stems and blooms, are poisonous if ingested, with a potentially fatal reaction for people and animals. Learn more about oleander poisoning and what precautions to take when you grow and care for these shrubs in your garden. Read more.

9 of the Best Companion Plants for Parsnips

A close up horizontal image of a gardener pulling a parsnip out of the ground.

Parsnips are frost-hardy white root vegetables that resemble carrots. They grow with full sun in moist, sandy loam. The seeds are slow to germinate and the growing season is long. Read on to discover 9 companion plants that share similar cultural requirements with parsnips, and aid the vegetables by being near them.

Pruning Brussels Sprouts: Tips for Success

A close up horizontal image of rows of brussels sprouts growing in the garden.

Growing brussels sprouts is a challenge, and understanding when and how to prune is part of the puzzle. Should you cut the tops off, and when? Is pruning the lower leaves necessary? Plus, studies have shown pruning at the wrong time can ruin your harvest. This guide has all the details you need to do it right.

How to Plant and Grow Popcorn for DIY Gourmet Kernels

A close up horizontal image of popcorn in a fry pan with ears of corn set on a wooden surface.

If you love the buttery crunch of popcorn and want to plant it at home, don’t miss this growing guide, where you’ll learn everything you need to know about growing this beloved snack. Delicious and nutritious, it’s fun to raise and even more fun to eat. We’ll include our favorite recipes, too. Read more now.

How to Save Okra Seeds for Planting

A close up horizontal image of okra growing in the garden.

Okra grows readily from seed, and you’ll have an ample supply of the best open-pollinated varieties when you collect and dry seeds at season’s end. This guide covers which types are best for seed-saving, and how to collect and dry them. Just a few pods will yield enough for a bumper crop and more to share with friends.

Try These Fixes if Cabbage Heads Split

A close up horizontal image of a split cabbage head.

How can you stop cabbage heads from splitting? While certain factors that can lead to cracking are sometimes unavoidable, such as heavy rain following a drought, there are easy steps you can take to reduce the risk. Keep reading to learn why cabbage heads crack open and what you can do to help prevent it.

Your Complete Guide to Overwintering Petunias

A close up horizontal image of colorful petunias growing in the garden.

Most of us toss our petunias at the end of the growing season because they can’t survive freezing weather. But there’s another option. You can overwinter petunias in a protected spot so you can enjoy their vibrant color again next season. There are two ways to do it, and this guide will show you how. Read more.

An Intro to Bonsai Trees: Information for the Beginner

A close up horizontal image of a gardener trimming a bonsai tree.

Bonsai is where horticulture meets art, and practitioners strive to capture nature in a miniature display. If you’re new to bonsai, you might be curious about where it came from and what it takes to create your own. This guide will fill you in on everything a beginner needs to know to get started. Read more.

How to Harvest Parsnips

A close up horizontal image of freshly harvested parsnips.

If you have ever grown parsnips, you know how disappointing it can be to wait all season only to discover that your crop is tasteless, stringy, and tough. It’s time to try again. Read on for all you need to know to harvest this nutritious root vegetable at the peak of flavor, for a sweet and tender harvest every time.

How and When to Harvest Kohlrabi

A close up horizontal image of freshly harvested purple kohlrabi set in a wicker basket.

Kohlrabi is a unique cole family plant with stems that swell into juicy, round bulbs that taste a bit like a cross between broccoli and cabbage. Delicious both raw and cooked, this easy-to-grow vegetable makes an exciting addition to the garden. Continue reading to learn how to harvest, store, and prepare kohlrabi.

How to Sow Seeds in Winter for Sweet Spring Blooms

A horizontal image of a perennial garden border.

Everybody knows that you can sow seeds indoors to transplant out in the spring, but did you know that you can sow flower seeds outdoors in the winter for easy spring blooms? There are two ways to do it, and in this guide we’ll walk you through both. Get ready for a fun winter activity with sweet results. Read more now.

How and When to Prune Almond Trees

A close up horizontal image of almonds growing in the garden pictured on a blue sky background.

How should you prune your almond trees, and when is the best time to do it? Should you give them an annual haircut, or skip it altogether? Become a pro pruner with this handy guide, and learn which branches to remove at any age to keep your trees happy, healthy, and producing almonds for years to come! Read more now.

Reasons Why Your Cabbage Plants May Not Form Heads

A close up horizontal image of cabbage growing in the garden in rows.

Frustrated by cabbage plants that won’t form heads? Numerous factors, such as extreme temperature, lack of water, and unsuitable nutrient levels may inhibit head formation in cabbages. In this guide, we explore possible reasons why this may happen and learn what you can do to help mitigate problems in the future.