Plant care and cultivation

While there are different types of indoor fern plants, they all share the same basic needs in terms of care. In nature, ferns are part of the class of plants known as Polypodiopsida. Not all types of fern will make good houseplants, but plants like the Boston fern (Nephrolepsis exaltata) and bird's-nest...

Also known as the cathedral windows plant, the peacock plant (Calathea makoyana) is a common houseplant which is known for its beautiful leaves more than its blooms. Although it can produce flowers in the right conditions, this does not often occur in the home environment. This doesn't detract from its...

Repotting an orchid might seem daunting, but knowing when and how to give your plant a new home makes all the difference between a thriving plant and a struggling one. Whether your orchid has outgrown its pot or its potting mix has broken down, this guide walks you through every step of the repotting...

Some plants will die if they do not have plenty of natural sunlight during the day, but others will die because of this light. These low-light plants will need shade or semi-shade to ensure their leaves do not burn and the entire plant doesn't dry out. Fortunately, many houseplants fall under this category...

Peace lilies are types of lily from the genus Spathiphyllum. Sometimes known as spath, peace lilies require semi-shade, warm temperatures, porous substrate, high watering and high ambient humidity. They are reproduced by division in spring. The conditions required for a healthy peace lily can be difficult...

Pruning the roots of a plant is an often overlooked aspect of gardening and plant care. It is a job which can help a plant to develop into a healthy mature specimen or it can help return an impoverished plant back to health. Unfortunately, it is something which is often disregarded by many plant owners....

Pruning is an often overlooked aspect of gardening and plant care, but it may make the difference in your plant surviving another season. Those of us that do prune our plants may not always be using the right technique to help the plant. This is understandable, since pruning is one of the most technical...

Aloe vera is a popular plant, known for its thick, gel-filled leaves that offer a range of health and skincare benefits. Many people cut aloe leaves to harvest this gel, whether for soothing sunburns, moisturizing skin, or using it in DIY remedies. But what happens after a leaf is cut? Can the same leaf...

Planning a well-deserved getaway? But before you pack your bags, let’s ensure your beloved plants thrive in your absence. Leaving your plants unattended for an extended period can be a daunting task, especially during the harsh summer or winter months. Don't let your green companions wither while you're...

With the scientific name Juglans regia, the common walnut is a large fruit tree that is highly appreciated not only for its large size and beautiful aesthetic appearance, but also for its valuable fruits. From these fruits we derive walnuts, one of the most popular nuts all over the world thanks to its extraordinary...

Peace lilies are flowering plants which make up the genus Spathiphyllum, of which there are around 60 individual species and many other cultivars. In addition to their dark green, glossy and elliptical leaves, peace lilies are known for their beautiful blooms. While they are still beautiful without inflorescence,...

Growing pothos in water is a simple and rewarding way to enjoy this popular, low-maintenance houseplant. Known for its lush, trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves, pothos thrives in a variety of conditions, making it an ideal choice for beginners. Unlike many plants that require soil, pothos can grow...

The cottony cushion scale (Icerya purchasi) is a notorious pest that can wreak havoc on a variety of plants, especially citrus trees. They feed on plant sap, causing direct damage to the plant tissue. Heavy infestations can lead to severe sap depletion, weakening the plant and stunting its growth. Characterized...

Dumb Cane, also known as Dieffenbachia, is a popular houseplant known for its striking, broad leaves and easy care. However, if you’ve noticed your Dumbcane’s leaves turning yellow, it could be a sign that something’s not quite right. Yellowing leaves can be caused by a variety of factors, including watering...

The Strelitzia Nicolai, commonly known as the Wild Banana, is a striking plant that brings a tropical touch to any indoor or outdoor space. With its large, lush leaves and tall stature, this plant is a favorite for creating a bold, natural statement. However, to keep your Strelitzia Nicolai thriving,...

Morning glory (Ipomoea purpurea) is a prolific plant often found in open fields and along roadsides, where it can quickly cover landscapes with its vibrant blooms. While it is considered invasive in some regions and even banned in certain areas due to its rapid spread, it can make a beautiful addition to...

Pothos plants (genus Epipremnum) are versatile houseplants prized for their adaptability and low-maintenance care. With their trailing vines and attractive foliage, they're a popular choice for adding greenery to indoor spaces. Often used in hanging baskets, as ground cover, or on shelves, pothos plants...

Uncover the essential tips for nurturing your bird's nest fern (Asplenium nidus), a tropical epiphyte celebrated for its striking, nest-like fronds. This guide will reveal how to provide the perfect care for your fern, including ideal watering practices, the best substrates, and effective methods for...

The firecracker plant or firecracker flower is a flowering plant with the scientific name Crossandra infundibuliformis. Many plants of the Crossandra genus are known for their brightly colored flowers, but the firecracker plant is particularly well-known for its beautiful orange blooms which look like licks of...

Different plants need different nutrients to survive, but there are certain basic components which a substrate needs for a plant to grow. Universal soil is a potting which which is enriched and balanced to cover most of these basic needs. It doesn't mean all plants can grow in universal soil, but universal...

Although it is also known as a sword fern or fishbone fern, Nephrolepis exaltata is commonly known as the Boston Fern in the US. As a type of fern, it is one of the oldest living organisms which has survived various geological and climactic changes. It was one of the first plants to develop a vascular...

Cacti and succulents are prized for their resilience and low-maintenance care requirements, making them popular choices for indoor and outdoor gardening. To truly appreciate these extraordinary plants, understanding their specific care requirements is essential. One of the most crucial factors in their...

Plants from the genus Ficus are known as fig trees, but many are kept as indoor plants. One of the most common is the weeping fig (Ficus benjamina). While this plant can grow into a very large tree, it is often kept potted indoors as a plant. It is relatively easy to care for and is a fairly robust plant for...

Known commonly as bloodleaf plants, species of the genus Iresine are flowering tropical plants which have strikingly beautiful leaves. Not all species have leaves the color of blood, but popular plants kept in the home and garden include the Herbst's bloodleaf (Iresine herbsti). Despite their tropical...

This versatile plant is a favorite for both beginners and experienced plant owner. It is known by its stunning glossy leaves, air-purifying properties and low-maintenance needs. Whether you're a new plant parent or short on time, the Schefflera can thrive in your home. In this article by thedailyECO,...

Thunbergia grandiflora is a flowering plant with many common names, including the trumpet vine, blue thunbergia and the Bengal clockvine, among others. As these common names suggest, Thunbergia grandiflora is a vine, i.e. a plant with parts that trail or climb onto other surfaces. The blooms of the trumpet...

Tubers are unique structures present in various types of plant which are able to store water and nutrients. These nutrients are necessary for the growth of the plant, but they are also the reason they have become very important foodstuffs for humans. They are known to be very nutritious, although different...

We associate chemicals in agriculture with negative impacts on the environment. Whether it is surface runoff leading to water pollution, harmful pesticides poisoning local wildlife or degradation of the soil, chemicals can spell disaster for many agricultural areas. Such associations are valid, but they...

Chelation is a process whereby metal ions are bonded to other molecules to create the resulting metal chelate. When iron is the metal involved, the result is a product known as chelated iron. They are often chelated to amino acids such as glycine or synthetic organic compounds such as EDTA and EDDHA. The...

Have you ever noticed your once vibrant houseplants losing their green color and turning a pale yellow? This might indicate chlorosis, a common disease that prevents plants from producing chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is the magic ingredient that allows plants to convert sunlight into energy for growth, so when...

Plant stems are not always rigid and upright. In fact, you may have observed that some plant stems bend or lean in various directions. The phenomenon of stem bending in plants can occur due to several factors, and understanding the underlying causes is crucial for effective plant care. Whether you are an avid...

Pothos, also known as devil's ivy or golden pothos, is a popular indoor plant known for its glossy green leaves that can trail or climb. While pothos plants are relatively easy to care for, yellow leaves can indicate underlying issues. It's important for plant owners to understand the potential causes...

Also known as Geraldton waxflower, the Geraldton wax (Chamelaucium uncinatum) is a flowering plant from Australia which is growing in popularity among professional horticulturists and amateur gardeners alike. It has different varieties with their own colors of flowers, ranging from white to pink, with several...

Is your aloe vera looking less vibrant than usual? Aloe vera is known for being a fairly resilient plant, but it's not completely resistant to everything. It can be susceptible to certain diseases and pests, especially if not cared for properly. By identifying the cause, you can unlock the right solutions...

Azaleas are small shrubs or bushes which are part of the Rhododendron genus. They are distinguished from other types of rhododendron by many differences, but one of the easiest ways to tell them apart is that azaleas have about half as many anthers in their flowers. Although there is much variety within...