by Thomas Fryd Blooming houseplants are a wonderful way to add colour to your home. They can be difficult to grow, but are worth the effort. When taken care of, many of the plants discussed here will bloom for long periods. Two common varieties of Anthurium, the Tail Flower and Flamingo Flower, have long, narrow, shiny leaves and red buds. Arthuriums need well-drained soil (add sphagnum) and plenty of heat, humidity and watering. Keep in Read More

by Kent Higgins While the African violet is, indeed, from Africa, it’s actually not a violet at all, but an herb called Gesneriaceae. The reason it came to be called a violet is because its deep purple blooms, though pink, blue and white blossoms are also common. The plant got its botanical name, Saintpaulia, from Baron Walter von Saint Paul, who was the first to bring the plant from Africa to Europe in 1893. African violets have become Read More

by Thomas Fryd Pachira Aquatica, also known as the Braided Money Tree is a unique and stylish plant that can add an exotic taste to anyone’s home. This plant features multiple trunks which wind around each other and can reach up to seven feet in height. There is also a bonsai version which can grow as large as a foot in height. On top of these winding trunks sits a plentiful patch of green foliage, creating a great contrast of brown Read More

by Bryan Perry Every gardener waits patiently for the time of the year when they can sit and chalk out the plans for the following years garden. It is usually in the winter that such plans need to be made, since summer is the best season for outdoor gardening. But if you think that your green fingers are raring to go and get some activity even in the winter months, you can go for winter indoor gardening. Before you embark upon indoor Read More

by Kent Higgins A disease known as “damping off” is a common affliction suffered by plant seedlings in their transition to a new home. A good method to cut down on this is through the use of a sterilized starting mixture, which limits the appearance of this disease. If you notice any of your seedlings have been affected by this, you must remove and discard them to ensure it doesn’t spread to other seedlings. Another common Read More

by Kent Higgins A home filled with potted plants is a home that exudes character, warmth and fertility. Plants can provide an emotional boost, help cleanse the air and are great simply for their decorative qualities. But the choice and maintenance of potted plants can pose some difficulties. First is the knowledge that particular plants often require very exacting sizes of pots. They also need to be kept in an area of the home where Read More

by Kent Higgins If you have a green thumb, you will love greenhouse gardening. In a greenhouse, you have complete control over the conditions that your plants grow in. You can grow some of the most beautiful plants available in a greenhouse. It doesn’t take a massive building to have a successful greenhouse. The space can be small or large, depending on your needs. If you have had a successful backyard garden, you will probably find even Read More

by Keith Markensen Some plants need to be outdoors in their natural habitat to survive. Others need to be sheltered indoors. Most plants, however, can do well both indoors and out. You will want to research on houseplants to make sure you choose the right plants for the right locations. Herbs are one of the most adaptable plants. It is very important that they receive enough light and drainage, though. Some are still survive a bit more Read More

by Keith Markensen Light One of the elements that all plants absolutely need in order to grow is light. Houseplants generally do best when they receive reflected light, but that are able to tolerate some direct light, as long as it’s not long exposure to the hot summer sun. If a plant must receive direct light, it is best if it is the more mellow morning and evening sun. Humidity In general, humidity is pretty low indoors. It can vary Read More