Gardening Guidance

Horticulture and gardening enthusiast’s online toolkit.

I compiled and curated these online gardening and horticulture resources and references for us to utilize ongoing as needed. I find they offer valuable plants, tools, references, resources, shared knowledge and inspiration and I hope to continue to grow and curate more in the shared toolkit over time. Hopefully this will encourage our growing and provide some found insight to my fellow horticulture and gardening enthusiasts. These resources provide places to find plants including fruits and vegetables, tools, fun and information outside of bloomhearty.com that could enhance our gardening experiences, grow our gardening successes and feed our floral imaginings. By sharing them, I aim to foster a sense of community and collaboration, helping others succeed in their gardening endeavors. I continue to focus on exchanging information that promotes sustainable practices and environmental awareness. I hope you enjoy and use them well thus fulfilling my aim to see these shared resources transform gardens and inspire others to cultivate green spaces and allow each of us to keep creating a positive impact as both individuals and for our shared environment.

plant reference

Gardening and Herbal Books Online (Free)
The book of garden design by Charles Thonger | Project Gutenberg
The Complete Herbal | Project Gutenberg
The Old English Herbals by Eleanour Sinclair Rohde | Project Gutenberg
Herbal Simples Approved for Modern Uses of Cure by William Thomas Fernie | Project Gutenberg
Madame Young’s Guide to Health by Amelia Young | Project Gutenberg
Herbals, Their Origin and Evolution: A Chapter in the History of Botany… | Project Gutenberg

Growing

First and Last Frost Dates by U.S. Hardiness Zone

Work with nature for gardening success. Hardiness zones in gardening are geographic regions that categorize the climate’s suitability for plant survival. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) devised this system based on average annual minimum winter temperatures.…

Vegetables

Eating your veggies is just loving yourself by the cup full of life’s goodness. Eating enough vegetables is crucial for overall health and well-being. Vegetables are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support vital bodily functions.…

Fall Garden Plant Division

Rejuvenate and enhances your garden’s vitality by dividing these plants in the fall. Dividing garden plants in the fall rejuvenates and enhances their vitality. Cooler temperatures and approaching dormancy minimize stress, encouraging robust root development. Benefits include increased…

Macrame Plant Holder

Holding hanging plants or bird feeders with simple handcrafted styling. Macrame plant holders are fun, handcrafted pieces that add a bohemian touch to any space. Made from knotted cords, they elegantly suspend plants, making them perfect for small…

Gardening Around the World

Gardening online resources from around the world. When exploring these sites, I look for their specific sections or articles related to gardening in colder climates or northern regions. Additionally, forums and community sections can be excellent resources for…

Northern Gardening

Take a look at some Minnesota online gardening resources for tailored northern gardening guidance. Gardening in Minnesota can be incredibly rewarding, though the climate poses unique challenges, especially with cold winters and short growing seasons. Selecting plants suited…

Gardening Success Through Observation & Monitoring

Boost garden health with observation and monitoring. Successful gardening involves careful monitoring and observation to ensure plants are thriving. To ensure gardening success, it’s important to adopt the right monitoring techniques, leverage available technologies, and set an appropriate…

Dehydrator Herb Preservation

Preserve flavors and nutrients by dehydrating. Owning a food dehydrator offers a multitude of advantages for culinary enthusiasts. It facilitates preservation by removing moisture from fruits, vegetables, and herbs, extending their shelf life without the need for additives.…

Vibrant Fall Color with Hardy, Cool-Weather Annuals

I do fall annual planting in late August and early September because it sets the stage for a vibrant and colorful autumn garden. Planting now allows these hardy plants to establish strong roots while the soil is still…

Planting in Mid-Summer

Prepare for fall and next year with August vegetable, herb, perennial, and bulb planting. I love planting seeds and plants in August because it feels like a bridge between seasons, extending the joy of gardening into the cooler…

Mid-Summer Flower Gardening

Mid-summer is a vibrant period for flower gardening, as many plants reach their peak bloom. This is a great time to enjoy the colorful displays of annuals like marigolds and zinnias, as well as perennials such as coneflowers…

Mid-Summer Fruit, Vegetable & Herb Gardening

Mid-summer is a vibrant time in vegetable gardens, orchards, and berry patches. Vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers are at their peak, offering bountiful harvests. Regular picking encourages continued production and prevents overripening. Orchards are filled with ripe…

Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth (DE) in the Garden

Food grade diatomaceous earth (DE) is a versatile, natural substance valued by gardeners for its pest control and soil enhancement benefits. Composed of fossilized algae, food grade DE acts as a mechanical insecticide by causing dehydration in pests…

Making a Mason Bee House

Build a mason bee house to support these important native bee pollinators. Creating a mason bee house supports local pollinators, crucial for healthy ecosystems and agriculture. Mason bees are effective pollinators, aiding the growth of fruits, vegetables, and…

Caring for Our Pollinators – Monarchs

Monarchs enhance plant reproduction through their pollination. My garden would feel lifeless without my bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies. These pollinators are essential for its vibrancy and health. They bring it alive and keep it alive. Bees and butterflies…

Winter Gardening

Winter gardening is essential for maintaining a healthy and vibrant garden. While the growing season may pause, critical tasks persist. Winter activities include garden cleanup, mulching, protecting perennials, soil testing, planning, and ordering seeds. Pruning dormant plants, maintaining…

Cut Flower Garden

Bulbs, annuals, and perennials ready for sharing. Growing a cut flower garden is a celebration of nature’s beauty and a therapeutic endeavor. Each bloom tells a story of patience, nurturing, and the cycle of life. It’s a source…

Spring Garden Plant Division

Spring division reinvigorates garden plants. Spring division revives our garden, harnessing the season’s renewed energy for optimal growth. By separating crowded clumps, plants receive enhanced air circulation, promoting vigor and minimizing disease. Benefits include prolific blooming, rejuvenated foliage,…

Hearty Pepper Jelly

Pepper Jelly is a delightful and versatile condiment with a perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors. Pepper jelly is a culinary secret weapon, adding a sweet and spicy kick to both everyday meals and festive gatherings. Brush…

Gardening Science

Evidence-based approaches for improving plant growth and vitality. Innovative scientific discoveries are reshaping gardening practices. Advances in soil microbiology reveal the intricate relationships between plants and beneficial microbes, offering new insights into nutrient uptake. Precision agriculture technologies, like…

Gardening for Bird Conservation

Birds in the garden bring landscapes to life. Attracting birds to your garden enriches the outdoor experience with nature’s vibrant palette and cheerful melodies. Beyond the aesthetic delight, birds play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by…

Gardening To Improve Outdoor Air Quality

Enhance outdoor air quality by naturally filtering pollutants. Planting your yard and garden with air-purifying plants enhances outdoor air quality by naturally filtering pollutants and releasing oxygen. Trees like oak and maple absorb carbon dioxide while releasing fresh…

Growing Food for Environmental Impact

Embracing sustainability in daily life. Having my own small orchard and vegetable garden brings immeasurable joy as I can nurture a space teeming with life. Cultivating my food imparts a profound sense of connection to the Earth, yielding…

Mid-March Seed Starting

I live in the lower middle half of MN and mid-March is the time in my zone (Zone 4b) to start these seeds indoor: Today is the day for me to get these started. Today I am also…

Green Bags for Fresher Greens and Veggies

Green bags are reusable and extend the life of greens and vegetables. They can be purchased online relatively inexpensively. I bought a set of 20 in multiple sizes off Amazon and have been using them for about a…

Plants and Seeds

  • Monrovia is renowned as a leading grower of premium plants, specializing in ornamentals, perennials, and shrubs. With a history dating back to 1926, Monrovia has built a reputation for quality, innovation, and sustainability in the nursery industry. Monrovia offers a diverse selection of plants, including rare and unique varieties sourced from around the world. They prioritize environmentally responsible practices, from water conservation to reducing pesticide use, aiming to support healthy ecosystems and promote biodiversity. Whether for landscaping projects or home gardens, Monrovia continues to be a trusted choice for gardeners seeking high-quality plants and reliable gardening advice.
    • Their plants are known for their superior genetics, ensuring strong growth and exceptional garden performance.
  • American Meadows is a well-respected online retailer specializing in wildflower seeds, perennial plants, and gardening supplies. Beyond products, American Meadows provides gardening tips, planting guides, and resources to help gardeners create vibrant and eco-friendly landscapes. With a commitment to customer satisfaction and conservation, American Meadows remains a trusted resource for enhancing biodiversity and beauty in gardens nationwide.
    • Founded with a mission to promote sustainable gardening practices and support native pollinators, American Meadows offers a wide selection of seeds and plants suited for various climates and garden types across the United States.
    • Their offerings include native wildflowers, bulbs, grasses, and garden-ready plants, all sourced to ensure quality and environmental responsibility.
  • Jackson & Perkins is a renowned name in the world of roses and garden plants, celebrated for over 140 years for their exceptional quality and customer service. Jackson & Perkins offers a wide range of roses, from classic varieties to modern hybrids, each selected for beauty, fragrance, and disease resistance. Their commitment to excellence extends beyond plants to include gardening tools, accessories, and expert advice through their catalogs and online resources. Whether you’re a novice gardener or a seasoned enthusiast, Jackson & Perkins continues to be a trusted source for premium garden plants and a wealth of gardening inspiration.
    • Established in 1872, they have cultivated a legacy of innovation in breeding and introducing new rose varieties, as well as other garden plants like perennials and shrubs.
  • Wayside Gardens is a respected name in the gardening industry, known for its extensive selection of high-quality plants and gardening supplies. Their catalog and online platform provide detailed plant descriptions, care tips, and design ideas to help gardeners create beautiful and thriving landscapes. With a commitment to customer satisfaction and horticultural expertise spanning decades, Wayside Gardens continues to be a trusted resource for gardeners seeking top-notch plants and exceptional service.
    • Founded in 1920, the company has built a reputation for excellence by offering a diverse range of perennials, shrubs, trees, and garden accessories sourced from reputable growers worldwide.
    • Wayside Gardens is particularly renowned for its premium roses, rare and unusual plants, and exclusive introductions.
  • White Flower Farm is a prestigious nursery and mail-order garden center renowned for its exceptional collection of plants, bulbs, and garden accessories. Their catalog and online store feature an extensive array of plants suited to different climates and gardening styles, along with expert advice on plant care and garden design. With a dedication to quality and customer satisfaction, White Flower Farm remains a trusted source for gardeners seeking premium plants and reliable gardening solutions.
    • Founded in 1950, White Flower Farm has cultivated a reputation for excellence in horticulture, offering a wide variety of perennials, annuals, shrubs, and trees carefully selected for their beauty, durability, and garden performance.
  • High Country Gardens is a renowned mail-order nursery specializing in water-wise plants and sustainable gardening solutions. High Country Gardens is committed to promoting xeriscaping principles, emphasizing water conservation and ecological sustainability in landscaping. Their catalog and online store feature a diverse selection of plants known for their beauty, resilience, and low-water requirements, making them ideal for gardens across the United States. With a passion for environmental stewardship and gardening innovation, High Country Gardens continues to inspire and support gardeners seeking resilient and eco-friendly garden solutions.
    • Founded in 1993 by acclaimed plantsman David Salman, the nursery focuses on offering drought-tolerant perennials, ornamental grasses, and native plants that thrive in challenging climates.
  • Nature Hills Nursery is a well-established online nursery offering a wide variety of plants, trees, and gardening supplies. With a focus on providing high-quality products and excellent customer service, Nature Hills Nursery caters to both residential and commercial customers across the United States. They offer a diverse selection of fruit trees, ornamental shrubs, perennials, and garden accessories, ensuring options for every gardening need and style. The nursery emphasizes sustainability and environmental responsibility, sourcing plants from reputable growers and promoting eco-friendly gardening practices. Nature Hills Nursery’s website provides detailed plant descriptions, care tips, and gardening advice, making it a valuable resource for both novice and experienced gardeners looking to enhance their outdoor spaces.
  • Spring Hill Nurseries established in 1849, holds a distinguished reputation as one of America’s oldest and most trusted nurseries. Specializing in offering a wide range of trees, shrubs, perennials, and gardening supplies, Spring Hill Nurseries is dedicated to providing high-quality plants and exceptional customer service. Their catalog and online platform feature a diverse selection of garden plants suited for various climates and garden styles, along with helpful gardening tips and design ideas. Spring Hill Nurseries prioritizes innovation in plant breeding and selection, ensuring their offerings include both classic favorites and new introductions. With a commitment to sustainability and horticultural expertise spanning over a century, Spring Hill Nurseries continues to be a favored choice for gardeners seeking top-notch plants and reliable gardening solutions.
  • Plant Delights Nursery founded by Tony Avent in 1988, is renowned for its extensive collection of rare and unusual plants, particularly perennials and ornamental grasses. Located in Raleigh, North Carolina, Plant Delights Nursery offers a unique selection of plants that thrive in a variety of climates and garden conditions. Their catalog and online store feature an eclectic mix of plants sourced from around the world, including many new introductions and hard-to-find varieties. The nursery is celebrated for its emphasis on plant exploration, breeding, and conservation, contributing to the diversity and innovation in horticulture. With a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, Plant Delights Nursery continues to be a go-to destination for collectors, garden enthusiasts, and landscape designers seeking distinctive and high-performing plants for their gardens.
  • Burpee is a household name in the gardening world, known for its extensive selection of seeds, plants, and gardening supplies. Established in 1876 by W. Atlee Burpee, the company has a long-standing reputation for innovation and quality in horticulture. Burpee offers a wide variety of vegetable, herb, and flower seeds, including heirloom and organic options, catering to gardeners of all experience levels. Their catalog and online store provide comprehensive plant descriptions, growing tips, and gardening advice to help customers achieve successful harvests and beautiful gardens. Burpee continues to lead the industry with its commitment to seed excellence, customer service, and promoting the joy of gardening across generations.
  • Park Seed founded in 1868, is a venerable name in the gardening community, renowned for its extensive catalog of seeds, plants, and gardening supplies. Specializing in both heirloom and hybrid varieties, Park Seed offers a wide selection of vegetables, flowers, herbs, and fruits suited for diverse garden settings. Their commitment to quality is reflected in their rigorous seed testing and breeding programs, ensuring reliable germination and robust growth. Park Seed also provides gardening enthusiasts with expert advice, planting guides, and innovative gardening solutions through their catalog and online platform. With over a century of horticultural expertise, Park Seed continues to inspire and empower gardeners worldwide.
  • Gurney’s established in 1866, is a trusted name in gardening, known for its comprehensive selection of seeds, plants, and gardening supplies. Based in Greendale, Indiana, Gurney’s offers a wide variety of vegetable seeds, fruit trees, perennial plants, and garden accessories tailored to different climates and gardening styles. Their catalog and online store provide detailed plant descriptions, growing tips, and expert advice to help gardeners succeed in their gardening endeavors. Gurney’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has made it a favored choice among gardeners seeking reliable products and innovative gardening solutions for over a century and a half.
  • Johnny’s Selected Seeds is a well-respected seed company founded in 1973 and based in Winslow, Maine. Known for its dedication to quality, innovation, and sustainable farming practices, Johnny’s offers a wide range of vegetable, herb, flower, and farm seed varieties. They cater to both home gardeners and commercial growers, providing seeds that are rigorously tested for performance and disease resistance. Johnny’s commitment to organic farming and seed breeding has led to the development of many new and improved varieties adapted to diverse growing conditions. Their catalog and online resources include detailed growing guides, educational articles, and tools to support gardeners in achieving successful harvests and sustainable farming practices. Johnny’s Selected Seeds continues to be a trusted source for high-quality seeds and expert gardening advice in the United States and beyond.
  • Longfield Gardens is a leading provider of high-quality flower bulbs and perennials, catering to both residential gardeners and professional landscapers. Established with a commitment to offering superior bulbs and plants, Longfield Gardens specializes in a wide array of bulbs such as tulips, daffodils, lilies, and hyacinths, known for their beauty, reliability, and performance. Their catalog and online store feature a diverse selection of bulbs suited for various climates and garden designs, along with expert advice on planting and care. Longfield Gardens prides itself on sourcing bulbs from reputable growers worldwide, ensuring top-notch quality and customer satisfaction. With a focus on enhancing outdoor spaces with vibrant blooms, Longfield Gardens continues to be a trusted resource for gardeners seeking premium bulbs and professional-grade planting solutions.
  • Eden Brothers is a renowned online retailer specializing in seeds, bulbs, and garden supplies, dedicated to providing a wide variety of high-quality products for gardeners across the United States. Established with a commitment to offering non-GMO, heirloom, and organic seeds, Eden Brothers caters to both home gardeners and commercial growers. Their extensive catalog features a diverse selection of flower seeds, vegetable seeds, herb seeds, and flower bulbs, sourced from trusted growers and breeders worldwide. Eden Brothers prioritizes customer satisfaction, offering detailed planting guides, gardening tips, and personalized customer service to support gardeners in achieving successful harvests and beautiful gardens. With a focus on sustainability and excellence, Eden Brothers continues to be a preferred choice for gardeners looking for reliable seeds and superior gardening supplies.
  • Breck’s is a distinguished name in the gardening community, specializing in premium flower bulbs and perennial plants since its founding in 1818. Based in Guilford, Indiana, Breck’s offers a vast selection of bulbs, including tulips, daffodils, lilies, and hyacinths, known for their quality and vibrant blooms. Their catalog and online store provide gardeners with a wide range of choices suitable for various climates and garden designs. Breck’s is committed to excellence in horticulture, ensuring that their bulbs are sourced from top growers and undergo rigorous quality control measures. With over two centuries of expertise, Breck’s continues to inspire gardeners with beautiful and reliable bulbs, helping to create stunning gardens year after year.
  • Dahlia Barn is a family-owned nursery based in Washington State, specializing in dahlias and other cut flowers. Founded with a passion for dahlia cultivation, Dahlia Barn offers a wide variety of dahlia tubers, ranging from classic favorites to unique and rare varieties. Their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is evident in their meticulous care for each dahlia tuber, ensuring robust growth and vibrant blooms. Dahlia Barn’s catalog and online store provide gardeners and floral enthusiasts with detailed information on planting, care tips, and creative ideas for incorporating dahlias into gardens and floral arrangements. With a focus on excellence and innovation in dahlia breeding, Dahlia Barn remains a trusted source for high-quality dahlia tubers and inspiring floral possibilities.
  • Swan Island Dahlias located in Canby, Oregon, is the largest and leading dahlia grower in the United States. Established in 1927, Swan Island Dahlias boasts an impressive collection of over 350 varieties of dahlias, ranging from dinnerplate to ball and pom-pom types, each celebrated for their vibrant colors and exquisite forms. The nursery offers dahlia tubers, cut flowers, and potted plants, catering to both gardeners and floral enthusiasts alike. Swan Island Dahlias is renowned for its commitment to quality, customer service, and innovation in dahlia cultivation, making it a premier destination for dahlia lovers seeking top-notch tubers and stunning blooms for gardens and arrangements.
  • Nourse Farms founded in 1932 and based in Whately, Massachusetts, is a prominent family-owned nursery specializing in berry plants. Known for their commitment to quality and innovation, Nourse Farms offers a wide variety of berry plants, including strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries. They are renowned for their extensive selection of disease-resistant varieties, ensuring successful yields for home gardeners and commercial growers alike. Nourse Farms’ catalog and online store provide detailed information on planting, care, and harvesting tips, along with personalized customer service to support customers in achieving bountiful berry crops. With decades of expertise and a dedication to sustainable farming practices, Nourse Farms continues to be a trusted source for high-quality berry plants and superior customer satisfaction in the horticultural community.
  • The Tree Center is a respected online nursery specializing in a wide range of trees, shrubs, and ornamental plants for landscaping and gardening needs. Founded with a commitment to providing high-quality plants and exceptional customer service, The Tree Center offers a diverse selection of trees suited for various climates and garden styles. Their catalog and online platform feature detailed plant descriptions, planting guides, and care tips to help customers choose and cultivate thriving landscapes. The Tree Center emphasizes sustainability and environmental stewardship, sourcing plants from reputable growers and promoting responsible gardening practices. With a focus on excellence and innovation in horticulture, The Tree Center continues to be a trusted resource for gardeners and landscapers looking to enhance outdoor spaces with healthy and beautiful plants.
  • Fast Growing Trees is a leading online nursery known for its wide selection of trees, shrubs, and plants that are renowned for their rapid growth rates. Founded with a commitment to providing quick-growing solutions for landscaping and environmental enhancement, Fast Growing Trees offers a diverse range of species suitable for various climates and gardening needs. Their catalog and online platform feature detailed plant descriptions, care instructions, and landscaping tips to assist homeowners, landscapers, and commercial developers in selecting and cultivating robust and vibrant greenery. With a focus on quality, customer satisfaction, and sustainable practices, Fast Growing Trees continues to be a trusted source for fast-growing plant varieties that transform landscapes efficiently and beautifully.
  • Arbor Day Foundation established in 1972, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to tree planting, environmental conservation, and education. With a mission to inspire people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees, the Arbor Day Foundation engages individuals, communities, and businesses worldwide in tree planting initiatives. They offer a variety of programs and resources focused on tree conservation, urban forestry, and reforestation efforts to improve air and water quality, mitigate climate change, and enhance biodiversity. Through partnerships and advocacy, the Arbor Day Foundation promotes sustainable practices and empowers people to make a positive impact on the environment. Their commitment to environmental stewardship and tree advocacy has made them a leading voice in global forestry conservation efforts.
  • Van Bourgondien Dutch Bulbs is a premier online retailer specializing in high-quality flower bulbs, plants, and garden accessories. With a legacy dating back over a century, DutchBulbs.com offers a vast selection of bulbs, including tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and specialty bulbs sourced directly from Holland. Their catalog features a wide array of bulbs suited for various climates and garden styles, accompanied by detailed planting guides and care instructions to ensure successful gardening experiences. Known for their commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, DutchBulbs.com continues to be a trusted resource for gardeners seeking top-quality bulbs and inspiring floral displays for their landscapes and gardens.
  • Easy to Grow Bulbs is a reputable online retailer specializing in a diverse range of flower bulbs, plants, and garden accessories. Established to cater to gardening enthusiasts of all levels, Easy to Grow Bulbs offers a wide selection of bulbs such as tulips, daffodils, lilies, and rare or unusual varieties. Their website features detailed product descriptions, planting tips, and care instructions to assist customers in selecting and nurturing their bulbs for optimal growth and blooming. With a focus on quality and customer satisfaction, Easy to Grow Bulbs ensures that gardeners have access to reliable resources and premium products to enhance their gardening experiences.
  • Hollingsworth Peonies is a renowned nursery specializing in peony plants and flowers. Located in Maryville, Missouri, Hollingsworth Peonies offers an impressive selection of peony varieties, including herbaceous and tree peonies, renowned for their vibrant colors and exquisite blooms. Their website provides a wealth of information on peony care, planting guides, and seasonal tips to help gardeners successfully cultivate these beloved perennial plants. With a commitment to quality and expertise spanning generations, Hollingsworth Peonies ensures that customers receive healthy, robust plants that thrive in various garden settings. Whether for landscaping projects or personal enjoyment, Hollingsworth Peonies remains a trusted source for premium peony varieties and expert gardening advice.
  • Swenson Gardens is a distinguished nursery specializing in peonies, located in Howard Lake, Minnesota. With a strong emphasis on quality and innovation, Swenson Gardens offers a wide variety of peony plants, including herbaceous and intersectional peonies known for their stunning blooms and resilience in colder climates. The nursery is recognized for its commitment to sustainable growing practices and meticulous care in plant propagation, ensuring strong root systems and healthy growth. Swenson Gardens’ website provides comprehensive resources on peony care, planting tips, and garden design ideas, catering to both amateur gardeners and landscaping professionals. With a legacy of excellence in peony cultivation, Swenson Gardens continues to be a trusted source for premium peony varieties and exceptional customer service.