Robby 
Is a Cleaver a Bird? Unpacking the Curious Name of the Pileated Woodpecker The pileated woodpecker is a crow-sized forest bird recognized by its flaming red crest and distinctive undulating flight. But where does its intriguing name come from? Specifically, is a “cleaver” referring to the bird itself or something else? Let’s explore the possible … Read more
With their trumpet-shaped blooms and sweet fragrance, lilies are cherished additions to gardens worldwide. Two of the most popular types are asiatic lilies and tiger lilies But what exactly sets these classic lily varieties apart? This guide explores the key differences between asiatic lilies and tiger lilies to help you choose the best ones for … Read more
With their graceful, arching fronds and lush texture, ferns make excellent additions to container gardens. But getting ferns to thrive in pots requires using a specialized soil mix suited to their needs. The right potting soil encourages healthy fern growth while preventing common problems like root rot. So what exactly makes the best potting mix … Read more
Squash and pumpkins come in a stunning array of shapes sizes, colors and flavors. While we often think of round orange pumpkins when fall arrives there are actually dozens of different varieties to discover. From tiny delicate gourds to mammoth hundred-pound beasts, squash offer something for everyone. Squash are extremely diverse but they can generally … Read more
With its vibrant, variegated foliage, Euphorbia x martinii ‘Ascot Rainbow’ makes a striking statement in any garden This eye-catching perennial looks beautiful when paired with the right companion plants. Certain plant pairings can enhance Euphorbia’s colors, complement its texture, and share its growing needs. Careful companion planting also increases biodiversity. Here are 10 ideal Euphorbia … Read more
The croton petra also known as codiaeum variegatum pictum petra is a stunning houseplant known for its colorful, variegated foliage. Native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, this plant thrives indoors with proper care. Here is a complete guide to growing a healthy croton petra plant inside your home. Light Requirements Croton petra plants … Read more
While working in the garden, you may come across tiny white spheres nestled in the soil or potting mix. Upon closer inspection they look almost like miniature ping pong balls or jelly beads So what are these mysterious white globules? Should you be concerned about their presence? Here’s a look at the most common culprits … Read more
If your lilac bush is shedding brown leaves too soon, don’t despair. This could be a sign of lilac blight, a common bacterial disease that spreads through wind and rain. Watch for buds may blacken and brown spots on the leaves that can later grow into sizable blight areas that extend to the stems and … Read more
Potato blight is the bane of many gardeners’ existence. This rapidly spreading disease can quickly ruin an otherwise bountiful potato harvest. But what if your potatoes have only minor blight damage? Is it safe to simply cut away the visibly affected parts and eat the rest? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into everything you … Read more
As a novice cook and vegetable gardener, I’ve had my fair share of experiences with rotten tomatoes. Nothing’s worse than eagerly slicing into a tomato only to find a mushy, moldy mess inside. But tomatoes don’t always broadcast when they’ve gone bad. Sometimes it can be tricky to discern whether that tomato in your fridge … Read more