Enhance your workspace with a beautiful plant! A touch of green can transform your office environment, making it feel fresher, more inviting, and much happier. Here are our top picks for office-friendly plants to bring life and cheer to your workspace.
[Read more…]Gift ideas for Dad
Father’s Day is a special time to express gratitude for all that our fathers do for us. It is a day to celebrate their love, support, and guidance, and to show appreciation for their tireless efforts in shaping us into the people we are today. Here are some of our favorite gifts we know your dad will enjoy.
[Read more…]Plant a Garden in Your Apartment
The thought of a large backyard garden blooming with various species would be a dream for anybody with a green thumb. But sometimes living space doesn’t allow for that, especially in apartments. There’s no need to up and move, however. There are plenty of planting options for small space living! [Read more…]
Pets and Plants
Plants and flowers are great for the home and outdoors. They help purify the air, can repel pests, and also brighten up living spaces and yards. When it comes to plants and pets, some may choose not to have plants in the home or in their landscaping because of the potential risk to their pet. If you want to have your pet and plants too, check out this list of 5 plants and flowers that are okay to have around pets and which ones you should keep away. [Read more…]
7 Houseplants You Probably Won’t Kill
Do you love the extra greenery that plants bring to a space but don’t have the patience to care for a houseplant? Don’t give up just yet! We’ve compiled a list of seven low-maintenance plants that are perfect for newbie houseplant owners. They’re durable and can withstand a little neglect every once in awhile.
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Mosquito Repellent Plants
Get rid of those pesky mosquitoes so you can finally enjoy a nice evening outside! Keep reading to see what natural plants and flowers are pros at keeping mosquitoes away.
Marigolds
Marigolds are known to repel mosquitoes and even rabbits. Marigolds prefer full sunlight so place your potted plants near open entries to your home. Marigolds contain a compound commonly used in insect repellents called, Pyrethrum. Not only will this plant work as a great barrier for your outdoor spaces but it will be beautiful addition to your home.
Lavender
The sweet scent of lavender is pleasing to our noses but works as a strong deterrent for mosquitoes. This herb is also known to repel fleas and moths. Some people even make their own natural insect repellent with lavender leaves.
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3 Plants Likely to Survive the Office
I am now the proud owner of a Phalaenopsis Orchid. My husband bought this gorgeous plant for my desk. The first weekend I left it, I knew I was going to come back to a dead plant. So far, it has survived. I’ve decided to name it Ollie the Office Orchid, and it has inspired me to write about other plants to brighten your office space.
Heartleaf Philodendron
The Heartleaf Philodendron is easy to care for and is a classic houseplant. The luscious leaves are heart shaped, and it can be grown in a pot or hanging basket. It likes to climb, so it will need a stake or trellis if in a pot. This is a low maintenance plant that can survive in low light with a moderate amount of water.
4 Plant Decorating Tips
If you are tired of the crisp winter weather and are looking forward to brighter sunny days, we have a suggestion for you! Spring is right around the corner but why should you wait for it? Transform your home today into a blossoming space full of life and energy by simply adding some plants. Choose some of these low-maintenance plants to brighten up your home and create your very own natural haven.
1. Add Color
Instead of repainting the walls, give your living areas a face-lift by adding some beautiful flowering plants. We suggest trying a Phalaenopsis Orchid. This long-lasting flower blooms perfectly for up to three months and comes in a variety of colors. Choose a color that will not only compliment your home but also your mood! Showcase your orchid on a windowsill or kitchen table where it can be admired by everyone.
3 Air Purifying Plants
Every home, office, or public space is going to have toxins in the air. The problem is figuring out how to remove these toxins in a cost-effective way. If you’re looking to create a healthier space the best way to naturally remove harmful pollutants is through the use of air purifying plants. NASA conducted a Clean Air study and found that these three plants are proven to be indoor air cleaners, making the place you live and work healthier.
English Ivy
The English Ivy’s thick foliage is excellent at removing formaldehyde from the air. WebMD describes this plant as a “fix for allergies” because it is proven to remove 60% of airborne mold from a room in just six hours. The English Ivy is also becoming very popular among pet-lovers because it reduces airborne fecal matter particles.
Ask the Plant Expert: Where Should I Plant My Azaleas?
Dear Plant Expert:
I live in central Missouri. I never have any luck with Azaleas. so where is the best place to plant them? I just bought 3 new plants and need to know where is the best place to plant them.
Jean
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Plant Expert Reply:
Jean,
In your area, azaleas will be tricky. You will first need to make sure that the azaleas you choose can tolerate a hardness zone of 5. You’ll want to check with your local nursery and garden center, since they will only carry azaleas hardy enough for your area. Large box stores may not pay attention to the special needs your area requires.
Once you have an azalea that is hardy in your zone, planting it correctly is crucial.
Plant your azaleas in an area that drains well, is protected from extreme weather conditions and receives a minimum of 5 hours of sun a day. Depending on your soil type, you may need to add humus to the soil when you plant it. Be sure to blend/incorporate the humus into your existing soil. Since azaleas like a more acidic soil, you may also need to add a little aluminum sulfate to the soil at planting time.
I also recommend fertilizing the azaleas from April through August. I use a fertilizer with a systemic insecticide. Your local garden center should carry this product.
I hope this information is helpful! Please let me know if I can help with anything else.
Jamie Jamison Adams