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
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
Long before modern medicine, people turned to the willow tree for pain relief. Its bark contains a natural compound, the basis for aspirin, that has been used for centuries to soothe aches and pains. Here’s how you can get the most out of this age-old remedy and learn how to make your own aspirin from … 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
Have you ever brushed up against a plant and been met with a surprising jolt of pain? The plant kingdom is not always as benign as it seems. In fact, in 2015 alone, over 46,500 encounters with toxic plants were reported to U.S. poison control centers, accounting for nearly 2% of all their calls.1 These … 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
Did you know that there’s a whimsical plant that has fan-like leaves resembling a mermaid’s tail? The Crested Senecio vitalis, more affectionately known as the Mermaid Tail Succulent, is not just a feast for the eyes but also a surprisingly low-maintenance addition to your home. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or a beginner, this … 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
The world of botany is undergoing a significant transformation. Over a hundred scientists at the International Botanical Congress in Madrid have voted to eliminate racially offensive terms from the scientific names of plants, fungi, and algae. This decision marks a crucial step towards promoting inclusivity and respect in the field of taxonomy. Here’s why this … Read more
