Seed Starting Tips

There are three excellent reasons to start plants from seed. First, you'll have many more varieties to choose from. Garden centers and greenhouses usually only offer the most popular plants and leave many new or old-fashioned varieties off the table. Starting plants from seed also can be much less expensive than buying only started plants. And finally, you have the joy and satisfaction of starting your own plants and watching them grow under your care. You have the added benefit of being able to give away extra plants if more germinate and survive than you have room for.

Prolific and Terrific: Ranunculus

Brilliantly colored flowers are 'ranunculus' chief attraction, and they are indeed special. They most often come in multiple layers of delicate, crepe paper--thin petals, looking like an origami masterwork. Ranunculus (R. asiaticus) excel in southern and western gardens, and make terrific container plants everywhere.

Let's Grow Peas

One of the best spring vegetables to grow is green peas. Because they're not always available in grocery stores, growing them yourself is the best way to be sure you'll get to enjoy these tasty treats. Plus, since they're an early spring vegetable, growing peas is a great way to start your vegetable gardening season.

Prune Your Roses

Pruning has four main goals: remove dead twigs and branches; remove weak, damaged, and useless branches; open the plant to improve air circulation; and create an attractive shape. We're here to help you prune your roses.

Winter Care for Houseplants

Everyone needs a little R and R, and for houseplants winter is the time to get it. Daylight is dramatically reduced, the air is dry, and temperatures are cool — not the perfect growing conditions. Follow these tips to keep your houseplants in shape through the winter.