Growing root vegetables like sweet potatoes can be challenging in rocky or poor garden soil, where pests like wireworms and voles can quickly damage crops. However, cultivating sweet potatoes in containers offers a solution, conserving garden space, warding off pests, and yielding a plentiful harvest even with less-than-ideal soil conditions. Follow these straightforward steps to … Read more
Passion flowers (Passiflora spp. and cvs., Zones 6–11) are beloved by many gardeners, and it’s easy to see why. With over 550 species, including shrubs and trees, the most well-known are the tropical-looking, tendril-bearing, climbing, flowering vines. These varieties are particularly appealing, as some even produce deliciously complex-flavored, fragrant, sweet-tart fruit. The vines themselves are … Read more
Keeping weeds in check is a challenge for gardeners, as they can quickly take over gardens and affect the appearance of lawns. Many turn to glyphosate, a herbicide known for weed suppression, despite its controversial health and environmental impacts, including links to health issues and declines in pollinator populations. As awareness of these risks grows, … Read more
Compost is a well-known soil amendment, but the concept of compost tea might be unfamiliar. Compost tea is a liquid fertilizer made by steeping organic compost in water. It’s akin to a “quick-release” compost, rich in nutrients and beneficial microorganisms like fungi, bacteria, and nematodes. These elements support plant health, improve soil structure, and can … Read more
Within the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens in San Marino, California, lies a hidden gem: the James P. Folsom Experimental Ranch. Named after the beloved, newly retired director, this garden is a marvel of regenerative gardening. A Blend of Edibles and Beauty This garden showcases the edible possibilities of Southern California, featuring a … Read more
Canapum Physalis, often recognized for its striking appearance and potent benefits, is a valuable addition to any garden. This plant, akin to its relatives in the nightshade family such as tomatoes and bell peppers, is distinguished by its unique, paper-like husk and small, round, orange fruit, which resembles a miniature lantern. Here’s a comprehensive look … Read more
Are your houseplants reaching for the sky or needing rejuvenation without the hassle of replanting? Air layering offers a practical solution. By Lynn Coulter | Updated on December 4, 2023 | Reviewed by David McKinney Over time, some houseplants outgrow their spaces or lose their lower leaves, becoming leggy and untidy. Rather than parting with … Read more
Growing mango trees from cuttings in water can be a rewarding process if done with care. Here’s a detailed guide to help you successfully propagate mango trees using the water method: Materials You’ll Need: Mango Cuttings: Select healthy cuttings with at least two or more nodes. Cuttings should be about 10-12 inches long. Sharp Knife … Read more
Rock gardens can introduce a rugged, natural beauty to any landscape, even on challenging terrain like steep hillsides. Explore these inspiring rock garden ideas to infuse your yard with color and design that thrives in less-than-ideal conditions. Consider the size of your landscape, desired colors, plant sizes, and the types of rocks and boulders you … Read more
On a whim, I picked up a six-pack of lisianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum) at a local nursery several years ago. It was worth a try to see if they would survive the incredibly hot summers here in the low desert of Arizona. I wasn’t sure how to grow lisianthus, and I was shocked when they grew … Read more