Understanding USDA Plant Hardiness Zones: A Guide for Gardeners

Do you know what zone you live in? I’m referring to the USDA Plant Hardiness Zones, a useful tool for gardeners to determine which plants will likely thrive in their area. However, it’s not the end-all, be-all resource for determining what will grow successfully in your garden. Let’s dive into what these zones mean and their limitations. What Are USDA … Read More

Debunking the Myths: The Benefits of Tropical Milkweed for Monarchs

Every year, as monarch butterflies embark on their incredible migration, gardeners and nature enthusiasts are faced with a recurring debate: Should you plant tropical milkweed Asclepias curassavica in your garden? Despite some controversy surrounding the tropical milkweed, it’s time to look at the facts and assess why this plant is not only beneficial but essential under certain circumstances. Understanding the … Read More

To Rake or Not to Rake: The Great Leaf Debate

Introduction: As fall descends and leaves paint the landscape with hues of red and gold, the age-old debate resurfaces: should you leave the leaves on your grass or dutifully rake them away? The internet is buzzing with arguments for letting nature take its course, but before you jump on the “leave the leaves” bandwagon, let’s examine why, for most homeowners, … Read More

Battling the Dreaded Mealybug: A Comprehensive Guide to Treatment and Prevention

Introduction: The menace of mealybugs is something every plant enthusiast dreads. These tiny critters can wreak havoc on your beloved plants, causing significant damage in a surprisingly short amount of time. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the world of mealybugs, discussing their life cycle, the potential harm they can cause, and, most importantly, effective treatment methods to rid … Read More

Are you Related to Louis XIV? Do You Have Palace of Versailles Syndrome?

Decorating styles come and go, both indoors and out. Home improvement shows will tell you that the kitchen you redecorated just 5 years ago is now “dated.” Landscaping trends may not change quite that fast – but they do change. Unfortunately, some folks seem to be stuck in the 17th Century. Now that’s really dated! What I’m referring to is … Read More