The delicate connection between plants and their pollinators is facing an unprecedented challenge. As global temperatures rise and weather patterns shift, this partnership is being thrown out of sync. Scientists are sounding the alarm about a growing mismatch between flowering times and pollinator activity, with potentially far-reaching consequences for our ecosystems and food security¹. From … Read more
Your roses are about to become the talk of the town, thanks to a surprising secret weapon hiding in your kitchen trash. A simple banana peel can work wonders for your rose bushes. Packed with essential nutrients like phosphorus (3.25%) and potash (41.75%), banana peels can help your roses develop strong stems and produce bigger, … Read more
With a promising U.S. potato production of 441 million cwt (hundredweight), a 10% increase from last year,1 both farmers and home gardeners are eager to get the most out of their potato harvest. However, harvesting potatoes at the optimal time is key for realizing this potential. Many common mistakes can lead to undersized or spoiled … Read more
Often misunderstood and disregarded, the thistle is a surprisingly versatile plant that has been used for centuries both as food and medicine. Here’s how to forage this abundant plant, learn how to prepare its different parts, and discover the potential therapeutic uses it may hold. 1. Thistle Roots Thistle roots are edible! They’ve been used … Read more
A recent survey by the National Wildlife Federation and the National Gardening Association reveals a growing trend: one in four gardeners now specifically seek out native plants, an increase from 17% in 2020.1 This burgeoning interest in cultivating native flora reflects the desire to connect with the land, and foster biodiversity. Here are 10 herbs … Read more
Cut and come again flowers are a gardener’s dream that offer a continuous supply of vibrant blooms throughout the growing season. These flowers respond to regular harvesting by producing even more flowers, ensuring a steady stream of beautiful bouquets for your home. Here are some of the popular options. 1. Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) These … Read more
Looking to supercharge your tomato harvest? Intercropping, the practice of growing different plants together, could be your garden’s secret weapon. Recent research suggests that carefully selecting companion plants can boost your tomato yield, enhance fruit quality, naturally deter pests, and even improve the overall efficiency of your garden.1 Here are the 12 best plants. 1. … Read more
Do you have a bunch of wine corks lying around? Don’t throw them away! Those little corks left over from your wine bottles can be super helpful in your garden. We’ve found ways to use them again, helping in your garden and cutting down on waste. These ideas are fun and useful, so grab those … Read more
What if you could step into your own backyard and harvest natural remedies for those aches and pains? It may sound too good to be true, but many common garden plants contain powerful compounds that can soothe everything from headaches to sore muscles. Here are 10 natural pain relievers you can easily cultivate at home. … Read more
Sunflowers (Helianthus) are more than just pretty faces basking in the sun. They’re a powerhouse crop, with the U.S. sunflower industry valued at a whopping $418.75 million in 2023 alone.1 But their significance goes far beyond their economic impact. Here are 10 facts about sunflowers that will forever change how you see these flowers. 1. … Read more
