Somewhere between 5,000 and 3,000 years ago, a fellow hoping to impress his lady love was the first to give a rose as a symbol of love. We can only imagine her response, but it was likely enthusiastic enough to make him think “Hey! Maybe I should cultivate these flowers.” Flash forward to today, and [...]

pH, the relative degree of acidity or alkalinity, is a vital component of a plant’s environment. As the pH changes the ability of the roots to absorb nutrients changes. But to understand how and more importantly, what to do about it, it’s helpful to have a knowledge of some very elementary chemistry. pH is a [...]

As summer approaches, visions of opening your backyard up to friends, family, and neighbors flood the dreams of most Americans. Playing catch with the kids, grilling with your neighbors, running with the dog, and relaxing in the shade with a good book are all great ways to make your lawn an enjoyable living space this [...]

Gardening is becoming more popular than ever, thanks to a number of converging circumstances, including the First Lady’s planting of a White House organic garden. Because of the sagging economy, people want to save money anywhere they can, and vegetable gardening is a great way to save money on foods that can be costly. Additionally, [...]

Your garden says a lot about who you are. By carefully choosing and arranging plants, tilling soil, and caring for your flowers and vegetables, you bring a part of nature into your life. In addition to the visual appeal of the plants, gardens attract wildlife. Rabbits and squirrels, butterflies and birds all enjoy your garden, [...]

Think orchids are just for those with green thumbs and garden aprons filled with gadgets and secret instructions? Think again. Now there are no-fear orchids for everyone that will reward you with fabulous blooms for months on end. “Orchids are really easy to grow,” says Justin W. Hancock, editor of Better Homes & Gardens online [...]

No other flower can evoke romance in the garden like a rose. As America’s favorite flower, roses can be found adorning homes in quaint coastal villages to rural farmlands, modern cities to quiet mountain retreats. “Anybody can grow roses, no matter where they live. If you can grow grass, you can grow roses in your [...]

From hardy hybrids to stylish, smart gardens, spring 2010 promises exciting new plants and products for garden lovers everywhere. “People want easy plants and products that are attractive and good for the environment and perform well in their gardens,” says Susan McCoy, garden writer and trend spotter. “And that’s what the new plants and products [...]

Do images of flowering trellises laden with yellow, pink, green and purple blooms dance through your dreams? You may already have a backyard full of blooming plants, but that doesn’t mean you can’t bring some beautiful blooms indoors to brighten up your house. And if you don’t have a backyard, indoor gardening is the perfect [...]

(ARA) – Change has come to America. The pop culture phrase “show me the money,” boiling throughout business and industry, has cooled down and is forcing people to take a hard look at what is really important in life. “Just look around you,” says Susan McCoy, trend spotter and outdoor living expert. “Our relationship with [...]