If your bird of paradise has been stubbornly producing beautiful leaves but absolutely no flowers, July is the month I pay closest attention. I’ve grown these dramatic plants in warm gardens and in large patio pots, and in both cases I’ve learned the same lesson: blooms don’t come from luck. They come from timing, light, … Read more
The snake plant, also known as Sansevieria or mother-in-law’s tongue, is a popular houseplant known for its hardiness and architectural appeal. With its striking upright leaves, it’s a favorite among indoor gardeners looking to add a touch of greenery without much hassle. However, even the most resilient snake plant can sometimes experience leaning or flopping … Read more
By July, my portulaca are either the happiest plants on my patio or they’re sending up distress signals by noon. These sun-loving bloom machines can look almost indestructible, which is exactly why gardeners sometimes miss the small problems that shut down flowering in extreme heat. When the forecast starts hovering in the 90s and the … Read more
Transform your worn denim jeans into practical moisture-wicking plant wraps to help keep your garden plants hydrated. This simple DIY project uses readily available household materials and provides an eco-friendly solution to water retention issues. Perfect for dry seasons or gardens prone to rapid moisture loss, these wraps help maintain soil moisture and promote healthy … Read more
I’m the sort of gardener who has a hard time throwing away anything that looks even remotely “useful,” so over the past year I’d been saving clean dryer lint in a paper grocery bag in the laundry room and wondering whether it could do some good outside. Early this June, when I set out my … Read more
By the time July rolls around in my little Midwestern town, my mandevilla is either starting to show off or starting to sulk, and there usually is not much middle ground. This is the month when the plant tells you exactly how happy it is. If the vines are stretching, the leaves are glossy, and … Read more
Transforming your patio garden into a lush and productive space can be both affordable and simple with the use of everyday items such as plastic laundry baskets. These inexpensive and readily available containers can be repurposed into perfect planters for growing a variety of root vegetables. Not only do they provide adequate drainage and depth … Read more
Sometimes the best DIY ideas come from looking at everyday garden supplies in a completely new way. That’s exactly what happened when one creative gardener turned a simple tomato cage upside down, placed it inside a large terracotta plant saucer, and created an elegant raised plant stand that has been winning over homeowners everywhere. At … Read more
Bananas are one of the most consumed fruits in the world, loved for their sweetness, versatility, and nutritional benefits. But what if we told you that you could turn overripe bananas into delicious natural homemade candies instead of throwing them away? These chewy banana bites are not only tasty, but also packed with essential nutrients, making them … Read more
Sometimes the simplest tricks are the most effective—especially when it comes to home safety. One such hack that’s been making waves on social media is the use of aluminum foil on door handles. At first glance, it might sound strange. But once you understand the logic behind it, you might be tempted to try it tonight. … Read more