Author: Mary Jane Duford

How to plant basil seeds

While basil starter plants are easy to find in most garden centers and even supermarkets, most of the best varieties in terms of growing ease and flavor need to be grown from seed. While the tiny seeds can be a bit fussy, they can be easy to grow once you understand what they need to…
Gardening quotes

Here are some popular gardening quotes along with their sources: “Show me your garden, and I shall tell you who you are.” – Alfred Austin “To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” – Audrey Hepburn Quotes from Gertrude Jekyll Gertrude Jekyll, a key figure in garden design, is known for her insightful and…
Gardening memes

Dive into a field of funnies about overambitious planting projects, the mystery of disappearing tools, and the joys of finally getting that finicky flower to bloom. Gardening memes are for everyone who believes laughter is just as essential to gardening as sunlight and water. Screw it, I’m gardening This is one of my favorite gardening…
Organic mulch

Organic mulch is a biodegradable material used to cover a garden’s soil surface. It’s biodegradable. These types of mulches are derived from natural sources, including composted leaves, bark chips, pine needles, composted yard trimmings, straw, and grass clippings. Organic mulch improves soil quality as it decomposes, helps retain soil moisture, suppresses weeds, and regulates soil…
How often to water peace lily plants

Water your potted peace lily when the top inch of soil feels dry. Typically, this means watering indoor plants once or twice a week. However, adjust based on your room’s humidity and light. Peace lilies prefer consistently moist soil but not muddy, waterlogged conditions. Over-watering can be as harmful as under-watering. Watering schedule for an…
20+ best seed companies to order from

Ordering seeds to plant in your garden is one of the most wonderful times of the gardening year. I’ve ordered and grown seeds from dozens of companies over the past decade, and am now convinced that taking the time to find a high-quality seed source is well worth the effort. We put so much time…
Planting peony roots

Planting peony roots usually occurs in the fall or early spring. Before planting, soak the roots in clean water for an hour or two before planting. Then place it in a wide shallow hole with the pink/white buds facing upwards towards the sky. Backfill with the sole that was dug out of the planting hole,…
Shampoo ginger lily plant

Shampoo ginger lily (Zingiber zerumbet) is a tropical flowering plant in the ginger family that grows from underground rhizomes. This herbaceous perennial has pinecone-shaped red flowers and narrow green leaves. The plants grow well in wet climates and typically reach 3-5 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide. Sap from the flowers can be used for…
Mossify Mistr

The Mossify Mistr is an electric plant mister spray bottle for houseplants. I’ve been using mine for almost two years now, and it has indeed stood the test of time. It’s a pretty neat gadget for plant lovers like myself. Mossify Mistr review The first thing that caught my eye was its stylish design. It…
How long it takes to change hydrangea flower color

It generally takes several months to several years to change the color of hydrangea flowers, depending upon the original composition of the soil and the amount and frequency of amendments added. In soil that’s already slightly acidic, adding a strong soil acidifier product in the spring and again in the summer may produce deep blue…
10+ low maintenance shrubs for shade landscaping

Not many of us have the time required to keep a perfectly manicured yard (and nor do we want to). If your yard has a shady spot that could do with a bit of low-effort landscaping, here are some low-maintenance shrubs for shade to consider. These lovely plants are easy to take care of without…
20+ shrubs for shade

Choosing appropriate shrubs for shade gardens and low-light spots is key to creating a vibrant landscape. While most shrubs really do need quite a lot of fun to fill out nicely, there are a few dozen standout shade shrubs that are favorites for a reason. 1. Boxwood Boxwood (Buxus spp.) is a popular evergreen shrub…
Why this festive season, wreath-making is the new Christmas craft party

As the festive season rolls around, we all start to feel the pull of cherished traditions and the excitement of creating new ones. This year, I wanted to add a twist to our holiday gatherings, something beyond the beloved cookie exchanges and ornament crafting. Why not host a wreath-making party? They are honestly so lovely.…
Children’s garden

Welcome to the enchanting world of children’s gardens! These magical spaces are more than just playgrounds; they are nurturing environments where kids and families can connect with nature, unleash their creativity, and learn the importance of caring for our planet in a children’s garden setting. Introduction to children’s gardens Children’s gardens are magical spaces where…
Beginner gardening

Beginning gardening can be both exciting and overwhelming. Start small to avoid becoming overwhelmed; a few pots or a small garden bed is a good beginning. The best place to start is by understanding your local climate and soil conditions, as these factors significantly influence what you can grow successfully. Research your USDA hardiness zone,…
How to grow vines

Wondering how to grow vines? These versatile, eye-catching plants can add color, fragrance, and even fruit to your outdoor space. Let’s look at selecting the perfect vine, planting techniques, maintenance, and creative ways to incorporate vines into your garden. How to grow vines To successfully grow vines, choose a species that thrives in your local…
How to grow trees

Learning how to grow trees provides us with oxygen, shade, and beauty, and also supports countless species of birds, insects, and other creatures. This step-by-step guide will provide you with all the knowledge you need to successfully plant and care for your trees, ensuring a lasting impact on your community. How to grow trees To…
How to grow shrubs

The presence of thriving, vibrant shrubs often enhances the charm of a garden. These woody plants serve as cornerstones, adding structure, seasonal color, and even privacy to your landscape. This comprehensive guide on how to grow shrubs will walk you through the process of choosing, planting, and caring for shrubs, transforming your outdoor space into…
How to grow a lawn

Dreaming of a lush, green lawn? Achieving a beautiful and healthy lawn is not a far-fetched fantasy. In our step-by-step guide, we will show you how to grow a lawn that not only looks great but also thrives in your specific climate. So, let’s dive into the world of grass types, soil amendments, and lawn…
Ground cover plants

Ground cover plants are low-growing species that can beautifully decorate the spaces between stepping stones, fill in shady spots, or replace grass. Let’s look at over 30 low-maintenance ground cover plants suitable for sunny and shady spots, drought-tolerant areas, foot traffic, and even wildlife-friendly gardens. Introduction to ground cover plants Ground cover plants are a…
How to grow paperwhites

Paperwhites are not only beautiful but also incredibly easy to grow, both indoors and outdoors. Here’s everything you need to know about growing paperwhites, from selecting the right variety to caring for your lovely blooms. How to grow paperwhites Plant paperwhite bulbs in a shallow dish with stones or potting mix, ensuring that the base…
How to grow monstera

Wondering how to grow Monstera plants? Here’s the essential information, ideal growing conditions, propagation techniques, potting and repotting tips, support methods, tips for troubleshooting common problems, popular varieties, plant safety considerations, and the numerous benefits of cultivating Monsteras. How to grow monstera When growing Monstera plants, ensure they have a warm, humid environment with indirect,…
How to grow begonias

Welcome to the versatile and vibrant world of begonias! These beautiful plants offer a wide array of varieties suitable for both indoor spaces and outdoor gardens. And fortunately, it’s easy to learn how to grow begonias. How to grow begonias To successfully grow begonias, start by planting them in well-draining soil and positioning them in…
How to grow raspberries

Over the years, I’ve transformed patches of soil into thriving raspberry havens, savored every sun-kissed berry, and faced every gardening challenge that came my way. Through my journey, I’ve accumulated a wealth of insights and techniques that I’m eager to share with all of you. Whether you’re a novice hoping to plant your first raspberry…