Few indoor plants showcase flowers as striking as the fire lily (Clivia miniata). Although it has an exotic look, the fire lily is simple to cultivate as a houseplant, yielding large clusters of flowers even in the dry conditions of a typical home. This tropical perennial, native to South Africa, is also cultivated as an…
The Chinese snowball viburnum is a sizable woody shrub indigenous to China, characterized by its hydrangea-like flowers, oval foliage, and a rounded, vase-shaped form. This plant can be either semi-evergreen or deciduous, depending on its growing environment. It thrives in areas that receive full sunlight, with well-drained, slightly acidic soil, and can tolerate temperatures ranging…
David Beaulieu is a seasoned professional in landscaping and a skilled plant photographer, boasting two decades of experience in the field. Plants can create a gentle, organic, and visually appealing separation between homes, often surpassing the effectiveness of a privacy fence. Prior to designing the landscape along property lines, it’s essential to accurately determine the…
Once established and properly shaped, most Japanese maples are relatively simple to cultivate. Pruning is one of the most effective methods to maintain the health of a Japanese maple. While some of these trees can be expensive, many individuals adopt a hands-off approach to their care. However, regular pruning is a crucial maintenance task that…
Milk thistle, a plant brought to North America during colonial times, has a long history of medicinal use. Over time, it has spread beyond cultivated areas and can now be found in various regions across the United States. This thistle is easily recognizable due to the distinctive white streaks on its large, dark green, and…
Vanessa Richins Myers holds a Bachelor of Science degree in horticulture and possesses more than a decade of expertise and training in the fields of horticulture and gardening. The purple leaf sand cherry is an exquisite ornamental plant that enhances any garden. Its striking purple leaves provide visual interest from early spring until fall, when…
Barbara Gillette is an accomplished Master Gardener, herbalist, beekeeper, and journalist with three decades of expertise in cultivating and propagating a variety of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and ornamental plants. The heirloom Mortgage Lifter tomato is a beloved choice among tomato enthusiasts, known for its large, beefsteak-style fruits. These tomatoes boast smooth, pinkish-red skin, a minimal…
Crocosmia, often referred to as coppertips, is a perennial plant that produces vibrant, colorful flowers during the summer, coinciding with the dormancy of many spring flowers. This plant flourishes in drier environments with lower humidity, requiring full sunlight and well-drained, slightly acidic soil. While it enjoys mild summer temperatures, it benefits from some shade during…
When dealing with limited space, it’s essential to think outside the box regarding your layout. In the kitchens of compact apartments, a traditional island may not be feasible or practical. Nevertheless, a variety of designers and decor enthusiasts have embraced an alternative solution: modular kitchen islands. These furniture items are designed for easy mobility, frequently…