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
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
Want your Christmas cactus to explode with festive blooms this holiday season? Well, you can! The Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii) is known for its long-lasting indoor blooms and otherworldly flowers. With just a few simple steps in July, you can set your plant up for a spectacular show that will last well into the winter … Read more
Since ancient times, humans have been drawn to flowers, investing precious energy in cultivating them across cultures.1 But which flowers are truly the most breathtaking of all? The 40 flowers featured in this list are considered some of the most beautiful in the world. These blooms hail from diverse regions showing incredible diversity and splendor … Read more
Have you ever wondered what to do with the leftover lavender leaves after harvesting the fragrant flowers? Don’t toss them away! These often-overlooked leaves are packed with potential, offering a surprising array of uses beyond just smelling good. Here are 15 creative and practical ways to put your lavender leaves to good use, from DIY … Read more
According to a survey by Home Advisor, on average, gardeners failed to keep 35% of their plants alive. And it’s twice as high for beginners.1 These statistics highlight a common challenge faced by plant enthusiasts: keeping their green friends alive and thriving. Whether you’re tending to a lush vegetable patch, nurturing potted herbs, or cultivating … Read more
