Summer flowering annuals for shady gardens Saturday, 05 October 2024 16:41
Bacopa Abunda Colossal 'White' Picture courtesy Ball Horticultural CompanyWe have all heard friends bemoan the fact that their yard is mostly shady and "nothing will grow, not even grass!" Let's face it, gardening in shade can be daunting at first, and is often viewed with despair by those endeavouring to maintain a shade garden, especially if they happen to be trying to grow plants that will not do well there. But, rest assured it’s all a matter of determining how much shade your plants will receive, enriching the soil, and choosing the right plants.
Calamondin Oranges can bloom and fruit year-round Wednesday, 02 October 2024 15:08
Calamondin 'Variegata' Image by Светлана from PixabayThe Calamondin Orange has gained popularity across the world for its versatility and ease of care in the garden. Because it can flower and fruit year-round it is a magnificent ornamental, and its showy orange fruits are eaten fresh or used in sweet and savoury dishes. In this article we will explore the characteristics, uses, and cultivation of this dwarf citrus tree with its miniature fruits.
Kumquats have been cultivated for centuries Monday, 30 September 2024 15:32
Kumquats Image by Davide Tirindelli from PixabayKumquats are grown for their ornamental and culinary uses. Unlike other citrus the miniature fruits have a thin and chewy sweet rind which compliments the fruit’s tangy flesh. The availability of exciting dwarf varieties that thrive in pots, make kumquats perfect for even the tiniest of gardens. Learn more about growing and using these fascinating little fruits.
What’s the ‘buzz’ about Finger Limes? Wednesday, 18 September 2024 14:35
Finger Lime 'Colette' Picture courtesy Just Berry PlantsFinger Limes are hailed as the ‘caviar’ of the fruit world because their shiny pearls are the size and texture of caviar and give a burst of effervescent, tangy lime flavour when chewed, earning them the nickname “lime caviar”. Finger limes are grown in the same manner as other citrus fruits, and do exceptionally well in pots, making them perfect to grow at home. Learn more about these fascinating natives of the rainforests, and you may just be tempted to buy a couple!
Make a statement indoors with Marantas Thursday, 12 September 2024 16:37
Maranta Lemon-Lime Picture courtesy Carol Von Canon from flickrThese gorgeous natives of the rainforests of Brazil have mesmerizing foliage that folds up at night as if in prayer. If you place them in a warm and well-lit spot indoors they will make a bold statement in any room, and if you’re looking for child and a pet-safe plant, you will be happy to know that prayer plants are non-toxic. Learn what they need to thrive indoors, including lighting, watering, humidity, temperatures, feeding, repotting and propagation.
The luscious Heartleaf Philodendron is not only gorgeous, but also easy to grow Thursday, 05 September 2024 15:47
Philodendron 'Brazil'The ‘Heartleaf’ or ‘Sweetheart Philodendron’ was named for its lovely heart-shaped leaves but this indoor pot plant has won the hearts of gardeners for its ease of growth. It does well in lower light conditions and thrives under artificial lighting, making it ideal for homes and offices, and best of all, it’s a strong air purifier. Learn everything you need to know about caring for this tropical beauty.
Make a splash with the quirky Corkscrew Rush Tuesday, 03 September 2024 14:36
Juncus effusus 'Spiralis' Picture courtesy Sue Luxton from flickr'Spiralis' is a quirky indoor pot plant that adds a touch of elegance to any room, and is easy to grow if kept moist. It can also be grown in any aquatic landscape because it thrives in both still and flowing water, and can be grown partially or fully submerged in both fresh and saltwater aquariums. In this article I cover its ideal growing conditions, both indoors and outdoors, including: sunlight, temperature, humidity, watering and water depth, soil requirements, fertilisation, pruning, propagation, and other tips for maintaining a healthy and vibrant plant.
Pansy Orchids command attention Friday, 23 August 2024 10:17
Miltoniopsis Orchid Picture courtesy Manu Vilela from flickrTo be successful with pansy orchids you must try to simulate the conditions enjoy in their natural habitat, and their annual growth cycle. Your reward for providing them with what they need will be a display of colour that will command the attention of anyone who walks into the room. Learn everything you need to know about growing and caring for these orchids, and how to mount or grow them as potted plants.
Lady's slipper orchids make intriguing potted plants Tuesday, 20 August 2024 12:19
Lady's Slipper Orchid Image by Simon Bardet from PixabayLady's Slipper Orchids are popular among orchid enthusiasts because they make excellent pot plants that are easy to grow in lower light areas of the office or home, and the flowers can last for up to three months. Some can also be grown outdoors in shady garden beds. Learn where these orchids will thrive, and what they need to flourish and bloom beautifully.
Why you should only grow the Goose Foot as a potted plant Thursday, 15 August 2024 13:53
Syngonium 'White Butterfly'Worldwide the goose foot vine remains a very popular indoor pot plant for very good reasons. It is not just good looking but also extremely quick and easy to grow, and for a tropical plant is very forgiving, tolerating bouts of neglect, and low humidity and light conditions. Learn how to care for it indoors.
Crucifix orchids are great beginner's orchids Wednesday, 14 August 2024 15:21
Yellow Epidendrum Picture courtesy Laurent Capy from flickrCrucifix orchids with their long lasting flowers are a great beginner's orchid because they are tough and easy to grow indoors, and in our humid subtropical regions, they will thrive outdoors in full sun. They are wonderful in pots or hanging baskets, mounted on trees or driftwood, and they can even be planted in the soil amongst rocks.
Meet the Dancing Lady Orchids Monday, 12 August 2024 18:09
Oncidium lineoligerum. Picture courtesy Bernard DUPONT from flickrDancing lady orchids are excellent for beginner orchid growers because they won’t be damaged by occasional changes in temperature and will forgive you if you forget to water them every once in a while. If they are watered correctly and are provided with sufficient light and the right temperatures and humidity, they will put forth a profusion of flowers in graceful, long sprays. Learn everything you need to know to grow them successfully indoors and outdoors.
How to grow and care for ‘Elatior’ Begonias Saturday, 10 August 2024 10:16
Begonia Elatior Image by Nowaja from PixabayDress up your indoor spaces or a shady garden, balcony, porch or patio with the colourful, rose-like blooms of Begonia ‘Elatior’ Hybrids. Tuberous begonias are ideal for growing in garden beds, hanging baskets, window boxes and pots for vibrant summer displays. Learn how to grow and care for them indoors and outdoors.