Yes, lemongrass comes back every year, but only where winters stay frost-free or where you protect it from cold. Lemongrass returns on its own outdoors in USDA zones 10 and 11, often survives zone 9 with mulch and frost cover, and comes back in zones 8 and colder only if you overwinter it indoors or … Read more >>
You can grow lemongrass in pots almost anywhere in the US, even where winters dip well below freezing. Plant one lemongrass plant in a 5- to 10-gallon pot with drainage holes, fill it with a rich, well-draining potting mix, give it at least six hours of direct sun, and water whenever the top inch of … Read more >>
A hot summer can turn a lush hanging basket into a crispy mess in just a few days. Baskets hang in the open air, so sun and wind hit them from every side. My advice is to start with plants built for heat and then give them the right basket, mix and watering routine. In … Read more >>
The ASPCA lists lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus) as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses, so I treat it as a plant to keep away from pets. Is lemongrass safe for cats? No, the plant is toxic to cats, but most cases involve mild stomach upset, while lemongrass essential oil is far more dangerous. A few … Read more >>
The most reliable way to water hanging plants without dripping is to take the pot down and water it at the sink or in the tub. Let it drain until the drips stop, then hang it back up. It’s a little more work, but it’s the one method that waters the whole root ball and … Read more >>
Black or brown leaves, dark stem spots, curling and white powder on a ZZ plant each have a cause. Here is how to check the rhizomes and save it.
Morning is the best time of day to water most houseplants, because daytime light and warmth help any splashed leaves dry and the plant starts using water right away. That said, the soil decides whether a plant needs water at all, so check it first and let the clock come second. If you miss your … Read more >>
Few things beat watching a hummingbird hover at a basket of bright flowers right outside your window. The good news is that you don’t need a big yard to bring them in. The right hanging plants that attract hummingbirds can turn a porch, patio, or balcony into a regular feeding stop. In this guide, I’ll … Read more >>
Most ferns die from moisture trouble. Your ferns are most likely dying because the soil is drying out, the air is too dry, or the roots are sitting in soggy mix; direct sun, cold drafts, too much fertilizer, and pests come next. The good news is that a fern with a firm crown and some … Read more >>
Some houseplants handle neglect better than others. If you travel often, forget your watering can, or just want a low-fuss windowsill, plants that can survive without water are a smart place to start. My advice is to be realistic. Most of these plants go weeks between drinks, not months. A few cacti, some succulents in … Read more >>