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
Each winter I grow tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, crocus, amaryllis, and African violets in my window. But most spectacular of all my indoor plants are the cattleya orchids—the popular florist’s corsage flower. Ideal Conditions in Bathtub For months they lived under ideal conditions in our bathtub until I was faced with the ultimatum, “Move them, or … Read more
Even good housekeepers may have avoided heavy chores in the hot summer weather, but this month should see everything in apple-pie order—benches overhauled and coated with lime-sulfur wash as a disease and insect deterrent: wooden structures painted dazzling white, inside and out, to conserve the winter light; glazing in shape and heating system ready. Start … Read more
A little greenhouse can be the means for a lot of gardening. Many gardeners have dreams and ambitions which far exceed their gardening space—the solution is to extend gardening in time rather than area. With a small greenhouse, your gardening can be a twelve-month proposition, regardless of the amount of outdoor growing space at your … Read more
Cereus peruvianus, also known as the Peruvian Apple Cactus, is a cactus native to Peru. The plant has long, spiny stems and blooms white flowers in the summertime. Cereus peruvianus is a popular houseplant and is easy to care for, making it an excellent choice for beginners. Some of the common household names of Cereus … Read more
Sedum rubrotinctum, commonly known as jellybean plant or pork and beans, is a succulent plant native to Mexico. It is characterized by its thick, fleshy leaves that are green in color with red tips. Also known as the “jelly bean plant,” this succulent has plump, colorful leaves that resemble jelly beans. Jellybean plants are relatively … Read more
Aporocactus flagelliformis, commonly known as rat’s tail cactus, is a cactus native to Mexico and Central America. This cactus is native to Mexico and Central America and does best in bright, indirect light. If you are interested in growing Aporocactus flagelliformis, purchasing a young plant from a nursery or online retailer is best. Some of … Read more