Pruning and cutting back a lemon-scented geranium

Pruning keeps a lemon-scented geranium dense, balanced and productive by encouraging fresh shoots from active buds. Without regular trimming, the plant often develops long stems, sparse lower growth and an unstable, top-heavy crown. Light pinching during the growing season is more effective than waiting until extensive correction becomes necessary. Careful cutting also provides healthy material […]

4 min read

Ornamental Garden

Planting and propagating lady tulips for lasting colonies

Planting lady tulips correctly is the foundation of healthy growth, dependable flowering, and gradual naturalisation. These small botanical tulips prefer a sunny site, sharply drained soil, and enough depth to protect the bulbs from temperature changes and surface disturbance. Propagation is possible through offsets and seed, although the two methods differ greatly in speed and […]

Ornamental Garden

Overwintering sweet Joe-Pye weed

Sweet Joe-Pye weed survives winter through its underground crown and root system rather than through persistent green foliage. Mature stems die after frost, while dormant buds remain protected near or below the soil surface. In suitable climates, the plant requires little elaborate winter protection. Most winter losses are associated with poor drainage, unstable container temperatures, […]

Ornamental Garden

Harlequin flower diseases and pests: identification and control

Harlequin flower is not usually considered a difficult plant, but its corms and narrow leaves can be damaged by several diseases and pests. Most serious losses occur when drainage is poor, planting material is infected or foliage remains wet for extended periods. Prevention is therefore based on healthy corms, clean tools, good airflow and irrigation […]

Loading weather…

This week's discovery

View all

Ornamental Garden

Overwintering perennial baby’s breath

Perennial baby’s breath is naturally capable of surviving cold winters, but its success depends heavily on keeping the crown and taproot dry enough during dormancy. In many gardens, winter moisture causes more damage than frost itself. Preparation should focus on drainage, timely cutting, crown protection, and avoidance of heavy mulch. A properly established plant normally […]

Auricula primrose diseases and pests: prevention and control

Auricula primrose remains relatively resilient when grown in cool, airy, well-drained conditions, but stress can make it vulnerable to several diseases and pests. Most serious problems begin when moisture remains around the crown, roots lose access to air, or plants become crowded. Regular inspection allows small changes to be noticed before an entire rosette collapses. […]

Pruning and cutting back Burkwood osmanthus

Burkwood osmanthus naturally develops a dense, rounded framework, so pruning should refine its form rather than dominate its growth. Light, correctly timed cutting maintains size, removes damaged wood, improves airflow, and encourages balanced branching. Excessive or poorly timed pruning can reduce flowering because developing buds are removed with the shoots. The most successful approach combines […]

Pruning and cutting back a lemon tree correctly

Pruning a lemon tree should preserve productive foliage while creating a strong, well-lit framework. Unlike deciduous orchard trees, lemons do not need severe annual pruning to remain fruitful. Excessive cutting removes evergreen leaves that manufacture energy and can stimulate vigorous, unproductive shoots. The best approach is selective, clean and timed according to the tree’s health […]

The care of the golden garlic

Caring for these bright bulbs requires a keen eye and a bit of patience throughout the growing seasons. You should start by understanding the natural habitat of this Mediterranean native to replicate it effectively in your garden. Providing the right soil structure is the most critical step for ensuring long-term health and vibrant flower production. […]

Pruning and cutting back the garden clematis

Mastering the art of pruning is the final step in becoming a true expert in the cultivation of the garden clematis. This specific variety belongs to the third pruning group, which means it requires a significant “hard prune” every year to maintain its health and maximize its floral display. Many beginner gardeners are afraid to […]

Planting and propagation of golden bamboo

Establishing a new stand of golden bamboo is a rewarding project that begins with careful planning and the right environmental conditions. This species is known for its versatility, but it requires a strategic approach to planting to ensure it thrives without becoming a management challenge. Whether you are looking to create a dense privacy screen […]

Pruning and cutting back of silver ragwort

Pruning and cutting back of the New England aster

Pruning and cutting back perennial baby’s breath

Kitchen Garden

Planting and propagation of green peas

Successful propagation of green peas begins with selecting high-quality seeds that are suited to your specific climate and soil conditions. You should look for reputable suppliers who provide fresh stock from the current growing season to ensure high germination rates. Understanding the difference between bush and climbing varieties is essential for planning your garden layout […]

Watering and fertilization of cauliflower

Cauliflower requires a consistent and ample supply of water to produce high-quality, tender heads. You must ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged at all times throughout the growing cycle. Inconsistent watering can lead to physiological issues such as hollow stems or the premature formation of small curds. Developing a disciplined irrigation schedule […]

Care of black salsify

Caring for this nutritious root crop requires a blend of patience and specific technical knowledge to ensure a bountiful harvest. Many gardeners overlook the importance of soil structure, yet it remains the primary factor in determining the shape and quality of the final product. You must focus on creating an environment where the roots can […]

Planting and propagating potatoes

Care of eggplant

Iceberg lettuce pruning and cutting back

Houseplants

Winter care for dumb cane indoors

Winter places dumb cane under conditions very different from those of its tropical habitat. Short days, dry heated air, cold windows, and slower compost drying can all create stress. Successful overwintering depends on warmth, careful watering, adequate light, and freedom from sudden temperature changes. The aim is not to force rapid growth, but to keep […]

Diseases and pests of New Guinea impatiens

New Guinea impatiens is generally resilient when grown in the right conditions, but it can suffer from diseases and pests if stressed. Poor drainage, excessive humidity, crowding, and irregular watering create the most common problems. The plant’s succulent stems and lush leaves can decline quickly when roots or foliage are compromised. Prevention is therefore more […]

Overwintering the persian violet

Successfully guiding a tropical plant through the winter months is one of the most challenging tasks for any indoor gardening professional. The persian violet, being native to warmer climates, requires a specific set of adjustments to survive the shorter days and drier air of the cold season. Understanding the physiological changes that occur during this […]