Garlic, the pungent and flavorful bulb beloved in kitchens worldwide, is a surprisingly versatile crop, especially when it comes to harvesting. Having a continuous supply of fresh, homegrown garlic throughout the year is achievable with a few clever gardening hacks. While California has etched its position as the leading garlic producer in the US, accounting … Read more
Ever wondered why a watermelon could cost as much as a used car? Well, in Japan, a black jumbo watermelon just sold for a whopping $6,100! That’s right, this isn’t your average grocery store watermelon. It’s a Densuke watermelon, and it just broke records as the priciest watermelon ever sold in Japan, and maybe even … Read more
Native to the tropical rainforests of Mexico, this epiphytic cactus is also known as the zig-zag or ricrac cactus due to its distinctive, wavy stems that resemble a fishbone. In its natural habitat, the fishbone cactus grows on trees, drawing nutrients from the air and surrounding debris. Its stunning, fragrant flowers bloom at night, adding … Read more
Potatoes love the cool weather, and fall is the perfect time to plant them for a head start next season. Fall planting usually starts in late August or early September.1 Planting when the soil is cooler helps the potatoes sprout faster, giving them a jump on the growing season and a potentially bigger harvest next … Read more
Meet bougainvillea: a plant that’s as storied as it is stunning. Native to South America, this vibrant woody vine captivates with its unique “flowers”—which are actually colorful bracts cradling tiny white blooms. Initially mistaken for petals by botanist Philibert Commerçon during a historic French expedition in the 1760s, these bracts hold a fascinating backstory. Named … Read more
Don’t toss out that cloudy water after rinsing your rice. It turns out, this humble kitchen byproduct is a powerhouse for your plants. While many have touted the benefits of rice water for promoting plant growth, a study has now confirmed that fermented washed rice water, a simple and sustainable fertilizer, can enhance crop growth … Read more
Tired of your herb garden fading with the seasons? Try perennial herbs! These herbs not only endure throughout the years, they transform your garden into a fragrant, edible landscape that keeps on giving. From the classic to the unexpected, these perennial herbs will bring life and zest to your kitchen and your yard. 1. Chives … Read more
Research confirms what many gardeners already know: coffee grounds can be a useful addition to gardens and landscapes, primarily as a soil amendment, mulch, and composting ingredient.1 Believe it or not, coffee grounds are also great at boosting hydrangea blooms. The acidity of coffee grounds influences not only the size but also the color of … Read more
Are those bushy-tailed bandits wreaking havoc on your precious potted plants? Squirrels, while undeniably cute, can quickly become a gardener’s worst nightmare. Their penchant for digging and snacking on bulbs has led to squirrel harvesting in 28 American states and six Canadian provinces between 2014 and 2016 alone.1 If you’re tired of battling these furry … Read more
There’s something undeniably charming and romantic about plants with heart-shaped leaves, and luckily, nature has provided us with a plethora of options to bring that touch of love into our homes and gardens. From delicate trailing vines to vibrant flowering plants, we’ve rounded up some of the heart-leaved beauties that are sure to add a … Read more
