So many people are buying plants to decorate their indoor environment over the winter, and I’ve had so many questions about which ones are toxic to pets. So here is a “partial” list. For more detailed information, visit the ASPCA’s website at ASPCA.org. Toxic Indoor Plants (For Pets) Aloe Amaryllis Asparagus Fern Avocado Anthurium Bird of … Read more
It’s the end of January, and my houseplants have been indoors since October. So, should I do anything with them now? Yes! Examine them for insects. All it takes is a missed egg or two, and, indoors, with no natural predators, you can have a problem. Here are some of the most common pests: Common … Read more
Did you know that yesterday, January 10th, was House Plant Appreciation Day? In the middle of winter, I sure do appreciate mine. If you’re like me, you’re tired of chilly gray winter days, so you’d love to take home yet another plant to brighten a corner, a table, a windowsill. But there are some things … Read more
Organic Insect Solution From Mother Nature Today, August 31, is National Diatomaceous Earth Day. So, what is diatomaceous earth? Diatomaceous earth is the fossilized remains of a diatom, a single-celled algae. Diatoms are estimated to be responsible for up to 50% of the world’s oxygen. Diatoms surround themselves with a shell made primarily of silica. … Read more
From Mythology to Your Garden In Greek mythology, Iris was a messenger from the gods who traveled to Earth on a rainbow. Wherever she stepped, flowers sprang up. Iris means ‘rainbow’—appropriate when bearded iris comes in a vast array of colors from pure white to purple/black, and nearly every color in between. The three upright … Read more
If you’re like me, you had your houseplants outside back in May. I know they love the fresh air circulation, better light, and great humidity—it reminds them of “home.” I love seeing all the bright green new growth, and it’s nice not to have to pick up yellow leaves from the living room floor where … Read more
As I tiptoed through various gardening groups on Facebook these past few days, I saw several people asking how to kill ants in the yard. So I thought I’d remind us all of what they actually do. (Besides marching across our kitchen counters, climbing all over our deck furniture, and leaving anthills in the middle … Read more
Is anything tastier or more essentially “summer” than fresh corn? Because the sugar in corn begins to convert to starch soon after picking, Grandma always said to get the water boiling, then go pick the corn, but there are now sugar-enhanced varieties that hold their sweetness for a few days after picking. Still, fresher is … Read more
Some Like It Hot!!! From meatloaf to spaghetti sauce to salsa to salads, we certainly use a lot of peppers. And, there are so many peppers to choose from that it can be overwhelming to pick one. So what are the differences? Sweet peppers have a mild, earthy flavor but no heat. Traditionally called green … Read more
It’s no secret I’m the neighborhood “cat lady.” I didn’t start out to be the neighborhood cat lady, you understand, but it happens. You start out feeding one stray—and they bring friends. Next thing you know, they’re yours. I’ve had cats all my life—and have been a gardener almost the same length of time. Why … Read more
