You may find one of two kinds of monkey grass aping each other in gardens — lily turf (Liriope spp.) and mondo grass (Ophiopogon japonicus). Although they share a frequent name, the sizes, shapes and growth habits of those grassy lily plant family members have different spacing requirements. Two Monkeys Lily turf and mondo grass…

Tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum) are one of the most common vegetables grown by home gardeners although they’re plagued by several insects and problems. Blossom-end rot is just one potential challenge, and it occurs with no warning, blemishing otherwise healthy tomato fruits. Epsom salt is an economical and widely available option, but its effectiveness has not been…

Palm trees help turn a normal terrace into a lush, green oasis. Potted palms may be used as an impressive centerpiece or as exotic embellishment. Based on light conditions, many palms are great choices for growing on the patio. Palms to Shady Patios Some patios get only indirect light throughout the afternoon or direct sunshine…

To add watermelon plants (Citrullus vulgaris) to your backyard, just pick a warm, sunny spot and plant seeds or seedlings in spring. Specific types are compact, bushy plants that suit smaller gardens, although the conventional watermelon grows as a vine. Irrespective of the kind you choose, providing soil conditions that are ideal to the plants…

Container growing requires special consideration for its long vines, although a summer treat, honeydew melons provide. If you provide the necessary help to train the vines honeydews can develop in containers on porches or balconies. Well-anchored trellises, such as those attached to fence or a wall, support the burden of their melons. Plant your honeydew…

The bright-green-leaved golden pothos vine is regarded as the ideal houseplant for the blackest of thumbs, as it’s a high tolerance for neglect. Deficiency of sunlight and water? No problem. With the recent emphasis on the advantages of owning houseplants for air purification purposes, pothos receives excellent reviews for its special ability to efficiently remove…

Deer will be the bane of many gardeners’ existences. For good reason, too — it’s a terrible feeling to wake up in the morning and find nothing but stalks and dirt where a perfect garden. But before you’re tempted to give up gardening completely, consider planting a couple of deer-resistant blossoms to shield your delicate…

Even though the garden is dormant today, heed the call of the outside and spend time in your favourite garden space. Activities with family members and friends, or even a solo job to center yourself during the hectic holiday period, will bring you in the new year feeling energized and happy. The Garden Consultants, Inc..…

This tall, fernlike perennial is a fine addition to the backyard. Though the overall look of flowers means the plant has ceased growing, the flowers do have the extra advantage of attracting beneficial insects. The most recognizable fennel can also be called Florence fennel or finocchio. It’s characterized by a white, artichoke-like bulb. Common fennel,…

Your nose lets you know once you’re approaching a planting of cistus or rock rose (Cistus spp.) , the most commonly grown stone rose. The leaves and stalks of those tiny shrubs have a characteristic resinous smell. The white, pink or red blooms have wrinkled, crepe-paper textured petals. Closely related rockroses from the Halimium genus…