Discover the expert in you.
Discover the expert in you.
Boxwood is commonly planted all over the country. Grow wintergreen boxwood with help from a certified horticulturist in this free video clip.
Apple trees (Malus domestica) are among the many fruit trees that have a fruiting variety grafted onto their rootstock. They are hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 through 9, depending on the variety. The wood used for grafting is called a scion, and it is most viable when collected from a tree in winter when it is dormant. Special care is needed to collect scion wood properly and to store it for later grafting.
Depending on how you look at it, owning land with differences in topography can be a blessing or a curse. On one hand, the changes in grade create an entirely different viewpoint than that of a flat lot. Slopes also offer micro-climates that you can use to your advantage when growing plants. The downside to a slope is that it can be difficult to establish planting beds and is more prone to erosion than that of a flat yard. The degree of slope can affect the growth of plants because of slope stability, soil type, wind exposure, erosion and root…
If you've ever wondered why some trees have rounded leaves while others have sharp, pointy foliage, the answer may lie how they have adapted to their climate. Research indicates that trees with jagged, pointy foliage tend to lose more water, which prompts trees to draw more sap from their roots earlier in spring, says ABC Science. More sap means more nutrients, helping to jump-start the photosynthesis process. When you're choosing trees with sharp, pointy leaves for your landscape, consider the tree's U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zone rating and select trees that thrive in your climate.
Transplanting raspberries with space in between helps the plants grow up as healthily as possible. Transplant raspberries with space in between with help from the owner of Eden Condensed, a small space garden design in Los Angeles, California, in this free video clip.
Keeping seeded plants moist is especially important while they're germinating. Keep seeded plants moist with help from a classically-trained chef with experience in both World class restaurants and private dining companies in this free video clip.
Homemade plant waterers are a really great way to creatively solve a basic problem. Make homemade plant waterers with help from an experienced gardener in this free video clip.
The neem tree (Azadirachta indica) contains an oil that has been in use for centuries for pest control. Neem trees are native to India, Africa and Asia and control up to 550 insect species with a high potency while also having a low toxicity level. Neem oil comes as ready-to-use products or in a concentrated form you mix with water.
The biggest benefit of native plants is that they are adapted to local weather patterns and growing conditions. Most native plants grow more vigorously in their original habitat and tend to be less invasive than exotic plants. These plants attract songbirds and butterflies to the garden. Native plants offer the gardener a variety of flowers, ferns, perennials and shrubs.
Caraway seeds have long been a popular herbal ingredient for culinary and medicinal uses. In cooking, caraway seeds are used to flavor baked goods, cheeses, alcoholic beverages, egg dishes, rice dishes and many types of vegetable dishes. As a medicinal herb, caraway seeds are used to treat indigestion, stomach cramps, flatulence, bloating, colic and other disorders of the digestive tract. The plant that produces caraway seeds should not come as a surprise.
Vine maples (Acer circinatum), hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 8, are understory forest trees in the wild. In landscapes, they are often focal points and planted singly or as a clump. They have irregular trunks and branches, and they produce nearly round palmate leaves. They are well-known for their bright red and orange fall colors. They suffer from few diseases or infestations; however, they may occasionally contract a disease or acquire a pest when under stress.
Washington hawthorns (Crataegus phaenopyrum) make handsome street trees with their attractive foliage, vibrant fall colors, fragrant flowers and brightly colored fruits. Originally native to the southeastern part of the United States, the Washington hawthorn now grows in United States Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 or 4 through 8. This Rosaceae family member suffers from many of the same issues as its rose relatives, including several nasty-looking fungal diseases.
Various species of dwarf mistletoe (Arceuthobium spp.) are potential pests of different pines (Pinus spp.) in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 through 9. The mistletoe species as a whole cover a wide area, although individual species of mistletoe and pine hosts generally offer much smaller growing areas. Dwarf mistletoe, the only type of mistletoe that attacks pine trees in the United States, is a parasitic plant capable of seriously impacting the health and appearance of a prized pine.
Sometimes children and adults want the same thing -- plants that are easy to grow, quick to reach maturity and add interest to a garden. The benefits of working with your children in the garden are unsurpassed. You get to spend time together, you give your child fresh air and sunshine, and you foster an appreciation for the outdoors in your child without having to give a lecture. Help with planting and watering chores is a bonus feature.
An Old World plant that was first domesticated more than 7,000 years ago, flax (genus Linum) is the plant from which linen is made. It is also used to make ropes and cords, and only three or four of its 150 or so species are suitable for garden growing. While most are annuals, a few are also perennials.
If you've ever visited the southwestern U.S., you may have noticed the characteristic bright green bark, foliage and branches of the palo verde (Parkinsonia spp.) -- green stick or greensward in English. These Sonoran Desert natives tolerate arid, hot conditions, making them a natural choice for sunny, drought-prone landscapes in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 9 to 10. Growth rates vary among the most commonly cultivated species and hybrids, all of which are known as palo verdes.
Switching between talent trees in "World of Warcraft" is something that you'll do right from the main menu system. Switch between talent trees in "World of Warcraft" with help from a video game expert in this free video clip.
All trees share these three basic parts, no matter what type of tree you're examining. From palm trees with their expansive, shallow fibrous root system to giant redwoods hundreds of feet tall, every tree has the same three elements: the root system, a trunk and a crown. Most trees begin with a taproot system and develop a fibrous root system as they grow. There are also wide variations in the type of leaves, from simple to scale-like to needles. Within each of the three parts there are variations, but these three essential elements exist no matter what size the tree…
Stepping into a well-designed garden gives you a sense of comfort and beauty, often accompanied by that nagging question, “How did she know what to plant, when and where.” The answer is simple, if you are a do-it-yourself kind of person. If you need a few creative ideas on how to improve your home's curb appeal, increase your property value or simply enhance the view from your kitchen window, books are full of ideas on where to begin.
Flowers come in many sizes, from minuscule to big, in a vast range of colors and fragrances. But one plant has the distinction of bearing the largest individual flower in the world. Like other flowers, this mammoth bloom exists only to attract pollinators to fertilize the blossom so it can produce the seeds that will sprout the next generation.
The rustling of the crescent leaves of the eucalyptus is a calming lullaby to those lucky enough to live near groves, and the fragrance is clear and fresh as hope. The magical tree (Eucalyptus ssp.), however, has another, more practical side emphasized in its native realm: The more than 700 eucalyptus species include some of the fastest growing trees on the planet and are among the most widely used plantation trees, covering some 45 million acres.
A well-designed landscape use trees as air-conditioning and heating tools for the nearby home. For example, trees in a westerly planting position block hot, afternoon sunlight, and trees in a northerly location prevent cold, winter wind from whistling through the home. Trees need proper breathing room above and below ground regardless of their planting location; limbs and roots need adequate spreading room to photosynthesize and to draw nutrients throughout their lifespan.
In China, the trunk fibers from windmill palm trees (Trachycarpus fortunei), also called Chusan palms, are used to make doormats and brooms. The slim, 10-inch trunk can grow to 40 feet tall and supports the palm's heavy canopy that stretches 10 feet wide. A windmill palm seedling may grow at different rates in its first year, depending on the conditions.
If you dream of a garden filled with vegetables and flowers but have a limited budget, consider starting plants by seed. Not only are seeds less expensive than nursery starts, but you also have a wider selection of species and varieties. Starting seeds is simple, but even if you follow the package directions regarding planting depth and soil temperature, your seeds won't succeed if you forget to keep the area moist.
Dracaena spp. is the scientific name for the dragon tree plant. Hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 10b to 11, it is commonly grown as a houseplant. This tropical plant is also called the money tree plant, lucky bamboo, the cornstalk plant or ribbon plant. Characterized by its striped green and white foliage, the plant is related to neither true corn nor bamboo. Pet owners should be wary of this plant.
Shedding bark that exposes shades of orange, purple and gray on multiple trunks is the dominant feature of Betula nigra, commonly called river birch. This medium-sized deciduous tree has a fast growth rate compared to other trees of similar size and resists many of the diseases and insects that commonly affect other birches. River birch grows in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 9a and is adapted to a variety of growing of growing conditions.
Apples grow on deciduous fruit trees (Malus domestica) that require a certain amount of chill hours, or temperatures at or below 45 degrees Fahrenheit, to set fruit. Temperature is the most important factor in growing apples and limits the cultivation of apples in warmer regions, such as South Texas, which does not provide the 900 to 1,200 chill hours required for most apple varieties. However, you can grow apples in South Texas if you choose from the low-chill varieties.
Pollination in flowering plants occurs when pollen from one flower lands on the stigma of another flower of the same species. This can occur on the same plant, between different flowers, or it can involve two separate plants. Some plants self-pollinate, too, with pollen moving to another part of the same flower that produced it. After a seed forms, those seeds must travel to a new location for germination, and flowering plants rely heavily on insects, birds, mammals and reptiles to carry out these reproduction processes.
Various species of jasmine (Jasminum spp.) are evergreen or deciduous shrubs or vines prized for the clusters of often-fragrant white, yellow or pinkish flowers they produce. A handful of different fungal pathogens may bother jasmine, ranging from minor and easy-to-address fungal leaf spots to more troubling wilts or root rots.
Their gently stirring leaves create a feeling of restful calm on hot summer days. Palm trees are found in desert, tropical and beach landscapes. Growing palms in pots offers the flexibility to modify garden designs seasonally, or on a whim, and to garden on hard landscaping. Most palms tolerate reflected heat from patios, driveways or other hard surfaces well, but container-grown palms must have very good drainage.
“It’s not the heat; it’s the humidity.” During the summer season, this lament is not restricted to the human species, but it’s also descriptive of a climatic challenge to growing grapes. Muscadine grapes (Vitis rotundifolia) are adapted to growing in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 7 and warmer, particularly where summers are long, hot and humid. These same environmental conditions also encourage fungus diseases that reduce yields and compromise plant health.
Quick growth is not always an advantage. In small-space gardening, a shorter cultivar that takes a long time to reach maturity means less maintenance and a longer time to enjoy the plant in the landscape before it needs to be replaced or repotted. Slow-growing plants are ideal for container gardening, rock gardens and hard-to-maintain areas like slopes and distant garden corners. Plants that come from environments that are harsh or severe, like deserts or alpine areas, tend to be genetically slow-growing.
A dead tree creates a potential danger to people, pets and property, especially one located near high-traffic areas such as sidewalks, playgrounds or parks -- or in your yard. Even a tree that appears stable may actually be weakened by disease or decay and in danger of falling or dropping branches. Dead or dying trees are unpredictable and should be removed by a professional tree service. Although it may seem that trees can topple without warning, often there are signs that a tree is unhealthy and in imminent danger of falling.
Watching a plant germinate is much like watching a contortionist rise out of a tiny box -- the mysterious, folded mass emerges and unfolds into a recognizable shape. To understand what has happened, you need to know a little bit about what each plant part is and how it grows.
In areas where wildfire is a natural part of the ecosystem, native plants are important to a fire-resistant landscape plan. Although no plant is completely fireproof, some plants are less flammable than others. Native plants are often used, because these plants are adapted to the environment and more likely to thrive in harsh conditions. Through selection and placement of fire-resistant plants, homeowners can create a defensible space or fire barrier around their homes to help slow the spread of flames.
Pine trees (Pinus spp.) are coniferous plants with long, needlelike foliage, woody cones and whorled branches. Commonly grown varieties include the ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa), which thrives in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 through 7, and the lolloby pine (Pinus taeda), which prefers warmer weather in USDA zones 6 through 9. Pine trees occasionally suffer damage caused by various pest, plant diseases and environmental conditions.
Keeping spiral conifer topiaries in shape isn't as hard as you think. After the shape is first defined, it's a simple matter of trimming new growth a couple of times a year to keep the spiral look. Spiral pines need to have dense branches pruned occasionally, but you can take care of that during one of your regular shaping sessions.
Rooting plant cuttings in water is going to require you to have quick access to a few basic tools. Root plant cuttings in water with help from a gardening professional in this free video clip.
Directly planting seeds is a very efficient way to get the job done correctly. Find out how to directly plant seeds with help from a classically-trained chef with experience in both world class restaurants and private dining companies in this free video clip.
The secret to planting tiny seeds successfully rests with a few key areas of your preparation process. Plant tiny seeds the right way with help from a classically-trained chef with experience in both world class restaurants and private dining companies in this free video clip.
Planting seeds in mounds is something that you can easily do, even if you're not a gardening expert. Plant seeds in mounds with help from a classically-trained chef with experience in both world class restaurants and private dining companies in this free video clip.
Some types of seeds seem tailor made for planting in cups that you may have in your home. Plant seeds in cups with help from a classically-trained chef with experience in both world class restaurants and private dining companies in this free video clip.
Planting seeds in a sponge is a clean, efficient way to grow certain types of plants. Plant seeds in a sponge with help from a classically-trained chef with experience in both world class restaurants and private dining companies in this free video clip.
Planting dill seeds is very similar to planting other types of seeds that you may find in your garden. Find out how to plant dill seeds with help from a classically-trained chef with experience in both world class restaurants and private dining companies in this free video clip.
When valuing a tree for insurance purposes, you're going to need to consider a few important things. Value a tree for insurance purposes with help from a longtime insurance specialist in this free video clip.
Trees that muffle sound can really help create a nice, quiet area in your yard. Learn about trees that muffle sound with help from the owner of Eden Condensed, small space garden design in Los Angeles, California, in this free video clip.
When planting a pomegranate tree, you're always going to have to make a few considerations regarding when you're planting your new item. Plant a pomegranate tree with help from a gardening professional in this free video clip.
Planting blueberry seeds requires a few key things, like just the right environment. Plant blueberry seeds with help from a longtime gardener and blogger in this free video clip.
Planting starter seeds for potatoes is something you need to do in a very particular way for the best results. Plant starter seeds with help from the operator of a nursery in this free video clip.
Humorist Larry Wilde once quipped that parents should never worry about the size of their Christmas trees, because “in the eyes of children, they are all 30 feet tall.” Although Wilde’s comment certainly rings true with most parents and children, size ranks among the most important traits to consider when shopping for the family’s next tree. But size isn’t the only consideration. Some palates delight in the taste of garlic while others detest it. Similarly, personal preferences for the perfect Christmas tree run the gamut. Perhaps a full tree with loads of fresh evergreen scent rings your jingle bell. Maybe…
