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
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
There are vast numbers of orchids, with over 28,000 species and many hybrids.1 This diversity means each orchid type has specific needs and cultivation challenges. While traditionally grown in soil or bark mixtures, a growing trend is emerging that offers a simpler, cleaner, and often more successful approach: growing orchids exclusively in water. This method, … 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
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
In an astonishing display of nature’s resilience, the Atacama Desert in Chile, renowned as the driest place on Earth, has transformed into a vibrant tapestry of white and purple flowers. This rare winter bloom, the first in over a decade, is captivating scientists and nature enthusiasts alike.1 Here’s nine interesting things to know. 1. Unexpected … Read more
