Exotic Gardening Popular Weekly Posts

Have you ever wondered how to care for holiday plants such as the Poinsettia or the Christmas Cactus?  

Tomatoes, peppers, and flowers thrive in Indiana's changing climate clear into November these days. In the wake of climate change, Indiana's landscape has undergone a remarkable transformation. When I embarked on my gardening journey, the northern reaches of Indiana were firmly situated in the U.S. Department of Agriculture's hardiness zone 5a. However, in recent years, …

As the calendar transitions to fall, life gets busier with back-to-school preparations, the delightful flurry of fall decorating, and anticipation for upcoming holidays. However, amidst all these seasonal activities, it's important not to forget the garden. Fall marks the end of the garden season for many, but it's also the perfect time for essential fall …

Amaryllis are a very popular Christmas plant, but did you know you can keep your plant from year to year and even learn how to grow Amaryllis from seed? In fact, you can even move your dormant Amaryllis outdoors in the spring to allow the leaves to start growing and gathering food through photosynthesis in …

How to grow spider plants is a question I get asked often, and for good reason! Spider plants are a popular choice for both novice and seasoned plant enthusiasts. Their easy-going nature and vibrant foliage make them a delightful addition to any home. Whether you're just starting out with indoor gardening or you're looking to …

Fall is the perfect time to give your garden a second life with a fresh crop of vegetables. The cooler weather makes it ideal for growing hearty greens and root veggies that thrive in the crisp air. If you’re wondering what to plant, you’ll be surprised at the variety of fall garden vegetables that can …

Growing potatoes in straw is a fantastic way to dive into home gardening, offering a simple yet effective method to yield fresh, organic potatoes right from your backyard. This simple method makes it easy to grow potatoes without heavy digging. First, choose the right potato variety and find suitable containers like large pots or even …

Have you ever wondered about the potential of the shaded, needle-covered ground beneath your pine trees? Surprisingly, there's a wealth of resilient plants that grow under pine trees, transforming these often-overlooked spaces into lush, green havens. These areas, with their acidic soils and limited sunlight, create a unique gardening challenge. The key is finding plants …

Planting a wildflower garden is like painting a masterpiece with Mother Nature's palette. It's an enchanting journey that infuses vibrancy and vitality into your surroundings. I've found that each bloom tells a story, a tale of resilience and beauty that's unique to its species. By selecting native wildflower seeds, you're not just cultivating a garden; …

  Cultivating biodiversity in your garden is an exciting journey that might initially seem challenging, but fear not! It's not as complex as it appears – it's about choosing the right plants for your space. Think of your backyard as a canvas for boosting biodiversity, a haven for native plants and pollinator-friendly species that can …

Bringing a new plant into your home is like inviting a new friend to share your living space, but here's the catch – indoor plant bugs prevention and cure become crucial. But here's the catch – along with the beauty and freshness, you might unknowingly bring in some uninvited guests. Household plant pests, including aphids, …

Disclaimer: I did receive the Vision Bee Cups, a hat and a flashlight for free in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own. Learning how to attract bees is more than just a gardening quest; it's a journey to create a buzzing haven for these essential pollinators. Picture your garden as a …

Caring for indoor palm plants, including popular varieties like the areca palm, majesty palm, and parlor palm, is an art that goes beyond mere aesthetics. These botanical companions not only add a serene allure to your living space but also demand thoughtful consideration for their well-being. Let's dive into the heart of this lush green …

Spider Plant Light Requirements are like the secret code to unlocking this green beauty's full potential. Imagine a humble yet strikingly attractive houseplant, with its gracefully arching, variegated leaves and tiny white blossoms, thriving in bright, indirect sunlight—the Spider Plant. This fascinating greenery, native to tropical and southern Africa, scores high on adaptability, capable of …

Unlocking the secrets to cultivating thriving blueberries starts with the crucial question: how to prepare clay soil for blueberries? It's a journey that goes beyond simply planting and reaps the sweet rewards of understanding the intricacies of blueberry-friendly environments. Growing these berries demands a meticulous approach, honing in on their unique soil preferences and environmental …

How to plant sweet potato plants becomes a thrilling adventure when you embark on the journey of cultivating your own produce. This endeavor not only satisfies the palate but also brings deep satisfaction to the soul. Now, let's shine a spotlight on one remarkable player in the realm of self-cultivation—the sweet potato plant. Packed with …

Indoor spaces come alive with the addition of plants for small spaces. These remarkable green companions have the power to transform even the coziest nooks into lush, vibrant areas bursting with life. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in places with spatial constraints. Whether they're trailing along a wall, basking on a sunny windowsill, nestled …

Eucalyptus growing indoors is a subject close to the hearts of both gardeners and houseplant enthusiasts. The eucalyptus tree, a symbol of both beauty and vitality, has captivated admirers for centuries. It's not just its majestic presence in outdoor landscapes that draws our fascination but also its remarkable adaptability to flourish within the cozy confines …

Winter may conjure images of barren landscapes, but it's also a time when nature surprises us with the delicate beauty of winter flowering plants. These resilient blooms defy the cold, offering a touch of vibrancy and hope during the frosty months. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the enchanting world of winter gardening, where …

Wondering how to grow bay leaves indoors? The bay leaf plant, or Laurus nobilis, is a culinary treasure that can bring a touch of Mediterranean charm to your indoor garden. Cultivating bay leaves indoors can be a delight, especially when you can reach out and pluck those aromatic leaves for your cooking. In this guide, …

How to fix waterlogged soil in pots is a topic that often escapes our gardening conversations. Water is an essential component to nourish the life within pots - those vibrant flowers, lush leaves, or the healthy growth of desired plants. However, too much of anything can be harmful, and the same applies to the watering …

Whether it's a cool corner of your patio, an area under a shady tree, or a balcony that barely sees the sun, even the shadiest spots can be transformed into a lush, vibrant garden with the right shade loving plants for containers. Understanding the unique characteristics and requirements of these shadow-friendly florae, along with the …

I invite you to step into my Indiana garden on November 2nd as we explore the resilience of winter vegetables in my hoop house., to a closer look at my Indiana winter vegetable garden, where every day brings new discoveries and challenges. As we stroll through my hoop house on this brisk November 2nd, we'll …

Growing a variety of cool season vegeatbles is the easiest way to have fresh food in your own backyard from fall through spring. Today I want to talk to you about the types of vegetables that do good in the fall garden. Almost any vegetable that you plant in early spring, such as lettuce or …

Providing a protective blanket for your plants, especially during the autumn chill, can make all the difference in your garden's health and vitality. As temperatures drop and the first signs of frost appear, your plants, particularly their roots, become vulnerable to the cold. This exposure can result in stunted growth or even plant loss. That's …

Today, I'm excited to dive into a topic that's near and dear to our hearts: managing watering in the fall when those rainy days start to roll in. It's a topic close to our hearts, and you're probably aware that striking that balance is key. Autumn rain can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, …

Fall tropical plant care is a topic that's incredibly close to my heart. As the temperatures drop and the leaves change colors, it's essential to ensure your cherished tropical treasures are ready for the colder months. In this comprehensive guide, I'll walk you through the process of smoothly transitioning your exotic tropical plants for the …

Treating plant blight, especially through organic methods, is a topic that's near and dear to my heart. Plant blight, it's a bit like Mother Nature's curveball, isn't it? It throws a wrench into the gears of our gardens, homes and farms, and the culprits behind it are as diverse as a jungle full of exotic …

When it comes to knowing when to use Fluval Stratum for houseplants to enhance the survival and growth, especially if you're a fan of rare gems like Hoya or passionate about plant propagation, the journey can often feel like navigating a complex maze. When it comes to providing your green companions with the perfect blend …

Disclaimer: I received this item for free or at a discounted price in exchange for my honest, unbiased review. All opinions are my own. You know, it's not every day you come across something as fascinating and practical as Marimo Moss Balls for your aquarium. These little green wonders are not only a delightful addition …

If you're a fan of greenery and want to make the most of your south-facing window, you're in for a treat. South facing window plants are a fantastic addition to your home, turning it into a vibrant and soothing oasis. For these plants to thrive, they require specific conditions, with sunlight being a key factor. …

When it comes to crafting a gorgeous, private, and practical landscape with the best plants for a hedge, the timeless appeal of a luscious hedge cannot be overstated. Serving as living walls that delineate and give character to our gardens, hedges are a garden mainstay that contributes greatly to the overall aesthetic appeal of any …

Halloween, with its rich history of folklore and magic, is the perfect time to infuse a touch of the mystical into your garden. Many plants have been traditionally associated with this enchanting holiday, each with its own unique story and uses. As the leaves turn to vibrant shades of orange and the air becomes crisp …

Embracing the art of growing fall vegetables is a delightful journey, especially if you're a passionate backyard vegetable grower like me, proudly hailing from Indiana. As the temperatures begin their gentle descent, a magical window of opportunity opens, allowing you to extend your growing season and relish a bountiful harvest even as winter's chill approaches. …

Picture this: a serene garden bathed in the soft glow of twilight, where tropical blooms sway gently in the breeze, and a sense of tranquility envelops you. In the midst of this idyllic scene, a whimsical figure with a pointed hat and a friendly smile peeks out from the foliage. That's the magic of garden …

Planting the fall garden is a passion of mine. As the leaves start to paint the world with their fiery hues and the crisp autumn breeze dances through the garden, I can't help but get excited about what's in store for this fall. It's a season filled with the promise of new beginnings, a time …

From the days of childhood, I was irresistibly drawn to the allure of vintage Halloween. The tales of Sammy Terry's mysterious stories and the bewitching charms of Elvira became an integral part of my Halloween tradition. While other kids might have hidden behind their pillows during spooky movies, I was enchanted by the world of …

Fall fragrant garden plants are a testament to the timeless and soul-nourishing pursuit of gardening, which offers a unique connection to the natural world. The scent of earth, the touch of leaves, and the vibrant blooms can turn a patch of soil into a sanctuary. But what if your garden could offer not just visual …

You know, fall pruning secrets are a topic close to my heart, and I'm thrilled to dive into it with you. It's like giving your plants a little spa day before winter sets in!  Fall pruning is the garden's best-kept secret, a practice that goes beyond mere tidying up. It's a ritual that can transform …

Greetings, fellow gardening aficionados! I'm absolutely thrilled to delve into the world of natural gardening tips for fall planting with you. There's a unique satisfaction that comes with getting your hands in the soil during the crisp days of autumn, all in preparation for a garden that will burst with life come spring. And you …