Ranunculus are adored for their multi-petaled, rose-like flowers and their ability to elevate bouquets and cut flower arrangements. Success with these plants comes down to timing, preparation, and understanding their ideal growing conditions and growth cycle. As a former market farmer, I’ve grown many ranunculus blooms for the cut flower bouquets we sold at our regional farmer’s markets. This guide to planting ranunculus shares my techniques and walks you through everything you need to know, from pre-planting prep to seasonal care. The advice here works if you want to grow ranunculus in containers or in the ground outdoors.
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Fast-growing indoor plants: The best houseplant choices
When you need more greenery in your life, fast-growing houseplants are a great option. They can transform your home’s interior landscape, adding a splash of living color, especially in the winter. Placing just one or two plants in the rooms where you spend the most time can brighten your space and your mood. I love visiting a garden center in the winter and bringing home a new indoor plant (or two!) to jazz up a bookshelf or to admire on my mantel.
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How to grow lavender from seed
Have you ever thought of adding a lavender hedge or border to your garden, or a mini lavender “field” to a part of your yard? If you are patient, consider growing lavender from seed. While it can be a little challenging, particularly if you are a beginner, there are a few best practices you can follow in order to successfully start your own lavender seedlings. And, it can help save you money.
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Insecticidal soap vs neem oil: What’s the difference?
Although both are often suggested to control various pest issues on both indoor and outdoor plants, isn’t it time for an insecticidal soap vs neem oil comparison? After all, they each have distinct uses, benefits, and drawbacks, and once you understand those, you’ll know just which product you should reach for and why. In this article, I’ll discuss what both of these products are and share some valuable insight into their differences.
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Growing sesame plants: How to grow sesame seeds
Growing sesame plants isn’t difficult and the beautiful plants not only produce edible sesame seeds, but also attract bees to your garden. Sesame is a heat-loving crop, but one that you can also grow in colder climates. You’ll enjoy months of eye-catching bell-shaped flowers which mature into the seed-packed pods. In this article you’ll learn everything you need to know to plant, grow, and harvest your own sesame seeds.
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How to grow wild columbine in a garden
I was walking by my deck one day to turn on the hose when I saw a little flash of color among the patio slabs below it. There, growing out of a crack, was a blooming wild columbine. I’d seen this wildflower growing in the woods on bike rides, but I have no idea how this particular plant showed up in my backyard—in a seemingly inhospitable sliver of dirt, no less! But it showed me the resilience of this native plant with the unique downward-facing flowers.
