Honeyberries (Lonicera caerulea), also known as haskap berries, are one of the most exciting fruits to discover for northern gardeners. Native to the cool boreal regions of Russia, Japan, and Canada, these hardy shrubs laugh in the face of late frosts, shrug off temperatures as low as -40°F, and reward patient growers with elongated, deep … Continue reading Honeyberry
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Grape
With the right variety selection, smart site preparation, consistent pruning discipline, and a few key cultural practices, grapes can become one of the most rewarding long-term investments in any northern garden. Whether the goal is a sun-warmed handful of sweet table grapes, homemade juice and jam, or a serious foray into small-batch winemaking, a northern … Continue reading Grape
Algae
What algae is Algae are among the oldest and most diverse life forms on Earth, predating plants, animals, and fungi by billions of years. They are not a single organism but an enormously varied group of photosynthetic organisms that range from microscopic single cells to giant kelp forests stretching hundreds of feet in length. In … Continue reading Algae
Duckweed
Duckweed water is a fantastic, free, hyperlocal fertilizer that many gardeners overlook. Duckweed water is a fantastic, free, hyperlocal fertilizer that many gardeners overlook. When duckweed grows in a pond, rain barrel, or water feature, it absorbs and concentrates nutrients directly from the water, producing a mild but remarkably effective liquid fertilizer. Rich in nitrogen, … Continue reading Duckweed
Pothos
Easy to take care of vining houseplant and versatile water plant for water features and ponds. The pothos plant, also known as Epipremnum aureum, is a popular houseplant admired for its heart-shaped leaves and trailing vines. It's easy to care for, making it ideal for beginners. Pothos thrives in various lighting conditions, from low light … Continue reading Pothos
Lucky Bamboo
Growing and propagating Lucky Bamboo Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana) is not actually bamboo at all but a tropical plant related to the Dracaena family, native to the rainforests of Central Africa. The segmented, hollow-feeling stalks give it a bamboo-like appearance. It has been a staple of feng shui practice for centuries, symbolizing good luck, prosperity, … Continue reading Lucky Bamboo
Phalaenopsis Orchid
Natural habitat and geographic range Phalaenopsis, commonly called moth orchids, are native to a broad swath of tropical and subtropical Asia and the Pacific. Their natural range spans: Southeast Asia including the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam South Asia including parts of India and Sri Lanka East Asia including southern China and Taiwan Northern Australia and some Pacific … Continue reading Phalaenopsis Orchid
Peony
Perennial bush. The peonies (Paeonia spp.) in my garden are cherished gems, weaving a tapestry of joy and beauty. With their lush, extravagant blooms, they transform the landscape into a paradise of colors, from soft pastels to bold hues. Each spring, their arrival is a breath of fresh air, a poetic dance that heralds the … Continue reading Peony
Begonia
Tender annual. Begonias are popular because they offer showy flowers or striking foliage, depending on the type, and many do well in containers, garden beds, and even indoors. The key to success is matching the begonia type to the light and moisture conditions you have. Main types of begonias Wax begonias - Small, bushy, rounded … Continue reading Begonia
Fern
Perenial. Ferns are among the oldest plants on earth, having thrived for more than 360 million years long before flowering plants ever existed. That ancient resilience translates beautifully into the modern northern garden, where ferns bring lush, layered texture to the shaded corners and woodland edges that so many other plants struggle to fill. Whether … Continue reading Fern