Key Points Begonias are a staple of the shade garden, and they provide long-lasting color and interest. This large genus of over 2,000 plants varies in form, with some grown primarily for their foliage (like rex and polka dot begonias), while others are grown for their stunning flower displays. Under the right conditions, begonias flower from pring to … Read more
Nutmeg is usually associated with the aroma that permeates the air during chilly weather. The native habitat of the nutmeg tree, though, is far from the typical North American autumn. It is a tropical evergreen native to the balmy Spice Islands in the South Pacific. With its dark green, glossy, aromatic leaves, and dense, conical crown, … Read more
Gloriosa lily is grown as a perennial in warmer zones, but in colder regions, you can either grow it as an annual or dig up the tubers and store them for the winter to replant in the spring. It does well in various levels of light and a wide range of soils. Like all plants in … Read more
Tribulus terrestris, commonly known as puncture vine, goat’s head, or caltrop weed, is a medicinal plant widely valued for its energizing, hormone-balancing, and revitalizing properties. Known for its thorny, hard fruits that can even puncture shoes or bicycle tires, this hardy plant has been used in traditional medicine for centuries across Asia, Europe, and Africa. … Read more
Not every garden gets eight hours of full sun, but that doesn’t mean you have to give up on growing your own vegetables. While many crops love long, sunny days, there are plenty of vegetables that thrive in part-shade conditions and still produce bountiful harvests. The key is knowing which vegetables can handle less light and how to … Read more
Butterflies aren’t just drawn to pretty colors, though they do love vibrant purples, bright pinks and sunny yellows. They’re also looking for nectar-rich blooms with easy landing spots, plus plants that support their full life cycle, from egg to caterpillar to gorgeous butterflies. The right combination doesn’t just invite them in—it gives them a reason to stay. … Read more
If you are an orchid newbie, I highly recommend that you read up on the types of orchids and their care before taking the plunge. Growing happy and healthy orchids is not hard, just different. Once you understand the conditions that orchids need, they aren’t much harder to grow than other houseplants. The Orchid: A Misunderstood … Read more
If you’re a chili pepper fan who enjoys some sweet with the heat you might try growing Thai pepper plant (Capsicum annuum ‘Bird’s Eye’). It grows thick-walled fruits 1 to 2 inches long and full of seeds. They ripen from green to red at maturity with a Scoville rating of 50,000 to 100,000. With a sweetness … Read more
Here is a list of the most fragrant flowers from around the world. They include some of the best fragrant types for containers and garden beds, especially for summer gardens. Many of these exotics not only add color and life to your garden, but they also come with a nice scent that can refresh your mind. Grow them … Read more
Black diamond watermelons are known for their enormous size and juicy, sweet flesh. This late-season heirloom variety is popular for home gardens, and large, commercial farms. The dark, blue-green-black melons have rich red flesh. and typically lack the usual stripes of more familiar watermelon varieties. The melons, which can easily weigh up to 50 pounds, require … Read more