Latest articles by Mary Ellen Ellis
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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
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What Not To Plant With Tomatoes: 8 Bad Neighbors That Could Ruin Your Harvest
Not all companion plants are beneficial – some can sabotage your tomatoes. Find out which ones to keep at a safe distance in the garden.
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Do Deer Eat Peonies? How To Keep Them Away And Save Your Gorgeous Blooms
Peonies are not usually favored by deer, but sometimes they go after the young shoots of the plants anyways. Learn how to keep deer away from beautiful blooms.
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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
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Taking Care of Azaleas Indoors – Care Guide For Bountiful Blooms In Your Home
Azaleas are great landscape shrubs, but they can also charm indoors! Learn how to keep them happy and blooming even when potted inside your home.
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Iris Companion Plants: What To Grow With Iris For Vibrant Floral Displays
Get the most out of your garden by choosing the right companion plants for irises. Accentuate and contrast iris blooms for the most attractive garden yet.
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8 Plants That Like Wet Soil And Full Sun – Stunning Picks For Damp, Sun-Soaked Areas
Finding plants that like wet soil and full sun can be a challenge, but there are plenty of varieties thrive in these tough conditions. Here are our favorites.
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7 New & Improved Cultivars Of Old-Fashioned Plants – These Aren’t Your Grandma’s Plants!
Old is new again! These old-fashioned plants have new cultivars that are sure to thrive in your garden and bring the charm factor. Neighbors will be envious!
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Never Plant Seedlings Until They Pass These 3 Simple Tests
Don't be over-eager to transplant seedlings into the garden before they are ready. These quick and easy checks will help ensure flourishing plants.
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8 Perfect Flowers To Plant With Tomatoes To Boost Yields & Banish Pests
Don’t forget flowers when choosing companion plants for your tomato beds or pots. These pretty, fragrant blooms add beauty but are also highly beneficial.
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Can Snake Plants Live Outside? Everything You Need To Know For Snake Plants Al Fresco
Snake plants can live outside given the right conditions, but be careful that they don't take over! Learn the best way to use snake plants in your landscape.
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My Homemade Orchid Fertilizer Always Brings More Blooms – Here's The Easy Recipe That Transforms Plants
Scientist-turned-gardener Mary Ellen Ellis shares her tried-and-tested DIY orchid fertilizer recipe, plus more ingredients to try for healthy, happy plants.
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How To Grow Geraniums For Bright, Beautiful Blooms All Summer Long
Geraniums have been one of the most popular garden plants for decades. Discover how to keep yours happy and blooming all summer with our complete care guide.
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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
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Best Care For Dogwood Trees For Charming Blooms And Bright Stems
Caring for dogwoods is easy and they require only a little maintenance to thrive. Learn how to care for this classic ornamental tree.
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4 Superfast Composting Methods: Turn Waste Into Garden Gold In 30 Days Or Less
Try the fastest composting methods to turbocharge your pile and transform kitchen scraps and garden waste into finished compost in just a few weeks.
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8 Self-Sowing Flowers That Will Grace Your Garden With Colorful Blooms Year After Year
Let nature take over and plant self-sowing flowers that will provide beautiful blooms for years to come – the perfect plants for a cottage garden design.
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What Is The Size Of An Azalea? Explore Different Varieties That Will Suit Every Garden
The size of azaleas can vary widely because they have been selectively bred for different landscape needs. Check out our picks for each size category.
