
Amy Draiss
Amy Draiss, serving as the Digital Community Manager at Gardening Know How since 2021, is responsible for building and maintaining connections within our online community. Her knack for gardening has seamlessly translated into a digital green thumb, allowing her to educate and inspire thousands of gardeners daily on social media.
Amy's journey into the green world began with her hands-on experience in the family landscaping business. She later transitioned into the role of manager at a retail garden center in Northeast Ohio, where she cultivated her knowledge of plants, gardening supplies, and customer relations. Her knack for social media management soon blossomed, allowing her to connect with fellow gardeners and share her wisdom on a wider scale.
Still living in the Midwest, Amy has honed her gardening skills under the challenging conditions of the region. Her two-acre property enables her to cultivate a raised vegetable garden and enjoy a wide range of trees, shrubs and perennials, including a couple of her favorites: hydrangeas and Japanese maples. Fun fact – her deep love for hydrangeas has earned her the title of the Hydrangea Queen here at Gardening Know How.Since joining the team, Amy has assisted in various marketing campaigns, manages email communications, publishes daily on social media and is the voice and author behind many of the team’s YouTube videos, covering a multitude of topics, with a special emphasis on her favorite subject—hydrangeas.During her free time, she enjoys spending quality moments with her family and devoted canine companion, as well as indulging in her love for travel, theme parks, and, of course, gardening.Amy's mission is to offer advice and inspiration for all plant enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting to sow your first seeds, Amy's expertise and genuine passion will help your garden flourish.
Latest articles by Amy Draiss
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Which Invasive Shrubs Should You Avoid Growing? Plus, Best Natives To Plant Instead
Certain plants may look lovely but they can wreak havoc to local areas and native wildlife. Here are the key invasive shrubs to avoid – with recommendations on gorgeous native alternatives to try
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Pruning Limelight Hydrangea Bushes For Bigger Blooms & Stronger Plants
Pruning 'Limelight' hydrangea will benefit the shrub. Flowers will be more bountiful the next year and branches will be stronger. Learn how and when to prune.
By Teo Spengler
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What’s Wrong With Your Azaleas? Identify, Tackle And Prevent 6 Common Azalea Pests
If you’ve spotted signs of azalea leaf damage, don’t panic – here’s how to identify the most common azalea pests so you can take action swiftly and keep plants healthy
By Tonya Barnett
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Why Are There No Leaves On My Azaleas? Identify Common Azalea Leaf Issues And Fix Foliage Problems
Azaleas grown under ideal conditions are normally carefree and disease free, but things can go wrong. Learn about common azalea leaf problems and solutions.
By Susan Albert
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Native Hydrangea Varieties In North America – 8 Sensational Smooth And Oakleaf Varieties For Hardy Blooms And Multi-Season Beauty
Hydrangeas are beloved for their enduring visual dynamics – but if you go native, they’re even better. Here are the most captivating native hydrangea varieties you can grow
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Looking For Blue Garden Design Inspiration? Try These 8 Plants For A Super Cool Garden
Embrace some of the coolest flowers and foliage around with blue garden design, as we reveal the design ideas and plants that can add a fresh new look to your space
By Teo Spengler
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How To Grow An Oakleaf Hydrangea For A Stunning Four-Season Display
The oakleaf hydrangea is pretty much the perfect shrub. It's easy to grow, looks good all year, and fits into almost any landscape. Here's how to grow one.
By Susan Albert
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Grow These 8 Pretty Peony Colors To Include In Your Garden For A Spectacular Spring Rainbow
There are as many shades of peony as there are types of garden – each more gorgeous than the last. Discover some of the most exhilarating peony colors for your yard
By Teo Spengler
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Want To Know How To Make A Spider Plant Bushier? 4 Secrets For Lush & Bushy Spiders
Are you looking for ways to make your spider plant look bigger or more dramatic? Follow these quick and easy tips on how to make a spider plant bushier
By Teo Spengler
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Grow ‘Karl Rosenfield’ Peony Plants For The Ultimate Frilly Border Beauties And Cut Flowers
For frilly double magenta peony petals infused with a heady fragrance, grow ‘Karl Rosenfield’ peony plants. Here’s how to cultivate the ultimate plushy blooms
By Tonya Barnett
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How To Make A Bouquet Garni Or Herb Bundle For Cooking
If you’re a great cook, you may have made an herb bundle before. If this is a new idea, learn how to add sparkle and interest to your dish with a bouquet garni.
By Amy Grant
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‘Coral Charm’ Peony Care For Sublime Semi-Double Peonies With Lush Salmon Pink Flowers
Peonies are known for their soft baby pink or magenta tones, but if plushy coral blooms are your thing, here’s our guide to the ultimate ‘Coral Charm’ peony care
By Tonya Barnett
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Can You Grow Potatoes From Potatoes You Bought At The Grocery? Let’s Give It A Try!
Can you grow store-bought potatoes? The answer is yes! With a little preparation, you can get a nice harvest from potatoes that have sprouted in your pantry.
By Bonnie L. Grant
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Want The Longest Lasting Hydrangea Flowers? Grow These 8 Panicle Hydrangea Varieties
For ornamental shrubs that deliver the longest flowering seasons with plush blooms and delicate hues, these panicle hydrangea varieties are essential in your yard
By Tonya Barnett
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How And When To Fertilize Azaleas: Learn How Smart Feeding Can Boost Your Blooms
Established azaleas do not need fertilizer to fuel their blooms, but they still need proper conditions to thrive. Learn how to fertilize without overdoing it.
By Susan Albert
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Growing Herbs In Containers: Ultimate Guide To Potted Herb Gardens For Year-Round Edibles
For anyone with a curiosity for kitchen gardens, growing herbs in containers is deeply rewarding and flavorsome, whether you’re a keen beginner or a seasoned amateur
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Viburnum Hedge Spacing: How To Plant Viburnum For The Best Hedges
Viburnum can make beautiful hedges in addition to being a specimen planting. Learn how to best space viburnum for hedges and explore the best varieties.
By Tonya Barnett
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15 Amazing Types Of Azaleas For Jaw-Dropping Color This Spring
There are more than 10,000 types of azaleas to choose from. Explore varieties loved by our gardening experts that are sure to brighten up any yard or garden.
By Amy Grant