I believe African violets have frustrated more people than all other houseplants. We read articles and books on their culture till we know just how it is to be done, what to do and what not to do. We buy good plants from reliable growers, get hand-tailored potting soil, and determine the light requirements of … Read more
Ficus lyrata is a broadleaf evergreen native to the tropical areas of western Africa. Because of its tropical origins, the plant does best in zones 10 to 12, where it can thrive in warm and moist conditions. In its native habitat, Ficus lyrata can grow up to 50′ feet, but it will grow to a … Read more
Tolmiea menziesii (TOL-mee-uh men-ZEE-see-eye) is a flowering hairy-leaved herbaceous perennial that often grows as a groundcover in wetlands and forests and along rivers and streams. The foliage resembles maple leaves and forms a thick groundcover. The plant is relatively fast-growing. The mature plant forms baby plantlets where the leaf meets the stem. These baby plantlets … Read more
When my little plants became over ¼” inch high, I prepared to pot them. I scrubbed two-inch pots clean and filled them with vermiculite. I often use sharp sand for this potting with excellent results; however, I notice that my violets bloom more quickly when plants are rooted in vermiculite, and since I’m always in … Read more
Euphorbia pulcherrima (yoo-FOR-bee-ah pul-cher-REE-mah), most commonly known as poinsettia, remains one of the most well-known Christmas ornamentals and holiday plants. It’s a semi-evergreen shrub that belongs to the genus Euphorbia and is a member of the Euphorbiaceae family, also known as the spurge family. They are also sometimes called Euphorbias in common English. The genus … Read more
The value of indoor gardening as a health-preserving and rest-promoting hobby is inestimable. It can supply necessary relaxation and ease mental tension in these trying times. If you’re not already an indoor garden hobbyist, you’ll find it worthwhile to start a window gardening venture this fall when your outdoor garden needs less attention. More than … Read more
I am often asked to offer my secrets for success in growing African Violets. I have no secret formulas since the African violet is one of the easiest of all house plants to grow with success. Its widespread popularity among indoor gardeners all over the country is proof enough. Basic Needs of African Violets To … Read more
None of the many vines and materials I have used to hang baskets in the window have given me more pleasure than Ceropegia woodi. Also called rosary vine, because it forms little bead-like bulbs along the vines that may be used for propagation, the vines are long, thread-like, slender, and have small, leathery, mottled, heart-shaped … Read more
What is Gasteria? We’re glad you asked. Gasteria is a genus of succulent plants native to South Africa. The name comes from the Greek word for stomach, gaster, referring to the shape of the flower. There are about 60 species in the genus. Gasterias are low-growing, perennial plants with thick, fleshy leaves. The leaves are … Read more
Faucaria tigrina, also known as the tiger’s jaws or the tiger tooth aloe, is a plant from the Aizoaceae family and is native to South Africa. This plant is a succulent, which means it stores water in its leaves. Native to South Africa, Faucaria Tigrina is a member of the Aizoaceae family. It is closely … Read more