Lotus plants, like the American lotus (Nelumbo lutea), bring a stunning look to water gardens. Unfortunately, they tend to attract all sorts of wildlife pests hungry for an easy meal. To protect lotus plants from wildlife damage, try using physical barriers such as netting, natural repellents, and make a habit of clearing out dead plant … Read more >>
Lotus plants bring a stunning touch to water gardens with their elegant flowers and distinctive leaves. These aquatic beauties love still water and naturally become the peaceful centerpiece in ponds or containers. Companion plants can boost the visual appeal of lotus and help create a balanced pond ecosystem. If you’re planning a water garden with … Read more >>
Growing a vegetable garden requires careful planning, especially when deciding which plants work well together. Many gardeners wonder about combining different nightshade family members in their gardens. While eggplants and peppers can grow together, it’s not the best combination for optimal growth and pest management. Both plants have similar basic needs for sunlight, water, and … Read more >>
Growing eggplants from seeds can be a rewarding addition to any vegetable garden. Many gardeners wonder about the best methods for starting these warm-season crops. You can plant eggplant seeds directly in the ground, but success rates are higher when starting them indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. Seeds need soil temperatures between … Read more >>
Many plant lovers wonder if the popular ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) falls into the succulent category. This common houseplant, also known as the Zanzibar Gem, features thick, glossy green leaves that give it a distinctive appearance in any indoor space. The ZZ Plant shares some characteristics with succulents, such as water-storing features that reduce its … Read more >>
ZZ plants are popular houseplants known for their hardy nature and attractive appearance. Many plant owners notice their ZZ plants may not grow straight, with stems leaning or falling over instead of maintaining an upright position. This common issue has several possible causes that can be identified and addressed with proper care. ZZ plant stems … Read more >>
Growing lotus plants indoors during winter can be a surprisingly rewarding project for gardeners all over the US. This aquatic perennial usually goes dormant when it’s cold out, but with some effort, you can keep lotus thriving inside until spring rolls back around. The real trick for indoor lotus? Keep the water warm enough and … Read more >>
Lemongrass is a fragrant herb that adds a zesty flavor to many dishes. This tropical plant is easy to grow and harvest at home. You can harvest lemongrass anytime during the growing season once the stalks are about half an inch thick. To pick lemongrass, cut the stalks close to the ground with clean, sharp … Read more >>
Growing eggplants in containers brings the joy of fresh, homegrown vegetables right to your doorstep, even if you don’t have a traditional garden space. These versatile plants adapt well to container growing, making them perfect for patios, balconies, or small yards. To grow eggplants from seeds in pots, plant two seeds 1/4 inch deep in … Read more >>
Eggplant belongs to the fascinating world of nightshade plants, a diverse family known as Solanaceae. The eggplant (Solanum melongena) is indeed a nightshade plant, sharing this family connection with familiar vegetables like tomatoes, potatoes, and peppers. Many people grow and eat eggplants without knowing their connection to the nightshade family. These purple fruits have been … Read more >>
