I love planting a row of sunflowers along my vegetable garden fence. Their tall stalks add another level to the garden, and their large, yellow flowers bring sunny cheer. More than visual interest, though, sunflowers provide other benefits to the garden. They attract bees and other pollinators, which are essential for crops like squash and…
A flower bouquet? In this economy? With cut flower costs soaring over the past few years, the pace of inflation for cut flowers surged to 9.4% in June of 2024 alone–a vase of fresh flowers on the table feels like such a luxury. But you don’t need to wait for Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day, or…
What if your breakfast could help you live to 100? For people in the world’s Blue Zones (areas known for their exceptional longevity), the first meal of the day looks really different from the typical fast-paced morning routine of toast and cereal. They choose nutrient-dense, plant-focused ingredients for sustained energy. Research in these regions reveals…
A flower bed can look full and colorful in June, then fade fast by July in the heat. For those who want steady blooms without spending every weekend on upkeep, plant choice makes a big difference. Some flowers are built for a long season. They keep blooming through heat, shrug off common summer stress, and…
There was a time when a house had flowers in it every single week, not because someone drove to the florist, but because someone walked out the back door with scissors. That tradition quietly disappeared over time, and the cut flower industry is happy you forgot it. The average American can now easily spend anywhere…
Monkshood looks almost too pretty to fear. Its tall stems and deep blue or purple blooms can make a border look rich and full in late summer, which is part of why so many gardeners fall for it at first sight. The problem is that monkshood is far more dangerous than its graceful shape suggests….
Brutally hot summer days are often the toughest days of the year for a gardener. Watching your favorite flowers wilt while the sun beats down can be discouraging, but the right plants make all the difference. Some species are naturally built to handle extreme temperatures and dry spells without breaking a sweat. These are the…
Starting a flower garden can feel like a big undertaking, but it doesn’t have to be (and it’s never too early to start planning for this upcoming spring!). You can create a stunning outdoor space bursting with color without needing years of experience. The secret is choosing plants that are forgiving, resilient, and eager to…
Gardening brings a special kind of joy, from watching seeds sprout to seeing your yard burst into color. But if you’re a rabbit owner or have wild bunnies visiting your property, you know the challenge of keeping your flowers from becoming a snack bar. While some blooms are a definite no-go for these furry friends,…