Problems

Watering plants might appear easy—just water them when they require it, right? Well, it’s not always as simple as that. One of the most common blunders gardeners make is watering at the wrong time, which can cause root rot, fungal infections, pest infestations, and even the death of plants. This guide will cover:The worst times to water plants (and why they’re detrimental) The optimal times to water for best absorption How to know when your plants are overwatered or underwatered Clever watering strategies to maintain plant health Popular myths and expert advice for effective irrigation Let’s get started!Why … Read more

The Complete Guide to Plant Protection from Freezing Weather IntroductionWeather patterns are getting more unpredictable, with unanticipated heatwaves in certain areas and torrential rains in others. Yet, unexpected freezes during autumn and early spring continue to be a nagging problem for gardeners. An abrupt temperature drop can destroy plants, particularly if they have been tempted out of hibernation by a short warm spell. For gardeners, learning how to keep plants from freezing is key to keeping a thriving garden healthy during winter. This comprehensive guide has it all—from frost vs. freeze basics to do-it-yourself protection techniques and care after a freeze. Why Protecting Plants from Freezing is Important Freezing temperatures have the potential to inflict irreversible harm on plants. Water in plant cells freezing results in the formation of ice crystals that burst cell walls, causing wilting, blackening, and death of damaged tissue. Certain plants may revive from slight frost damage, but a hard freeze tends to be lethal. Major Threats from Freezing Temperatures: Shattering dormancy prematurely – A heat wave followed … Read more

Methuselah, a Great Basin bristlecone pine in California’s White Mountains, has been aged at 4,854 years old based on ring counts. While houseplant owners can’t expect their green buddies to reach such epic ages, some indoor plants do stick around for a surprisingly long time. So, how long do houseplants live? Well, it varies by plant type, growing conditions, … Read more

Just hearing about common garden plant diseases can make even the most seasoned gardener nervous. Sure, there’s no shortage of online info, but figuring out exactly what’s wrong isn’t always straightforward. After checking the signs and symptoms, worried gardeners might end up convinced their beloved plants have caught at least 10 different diseases! Honestly, one of the … Read more

A flooded garden wreaks havoc on plants and soil—trust me, I’ve been there. Back in 2013, my gardens were underwater for weeks. The problem wasn’t just heavy rain (though that played a part) but also the freshly plowed field behind my property. What was once a grassy, perennial field turned into loose, churned-up soil that … Read more