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With beautiful, large, lush leaves, the stunning elephant ear plants makes a statement in gardens and landscapes. These monsters thrive in USDA zones 8 to 11 growing up to 6 feet tall and with, with leaves that are 2 feet long. Bulbs can be planted in containers or directly in the garden in holes 2-3 inches deep. Plants prefer full sun to partial shade in an area protected from strong winds.
Due to their long growing season, tomatoes are usually planted indoors and then juvenile plants are transplanted to the garden. When the transplants have a strong sturdy stem, and the chance of spring frost has passed they can be moved to the garden. Acclimate plants to outdoor temperatures for about a week and then transplant them in the garden into holes twice the size of their root ball.
Begonias are grown as hardy perennials in zones 10 and 11, and summer annuals in colder areas. These easy to care for plants have a compact, bushy structure with fleshy stems, bronze leaves, and blooms in shades of red, pink, or white. All of the 10 common types prefer morning sun and afternoon shade, well-draining soil, and light fertilizer every couple of weeks.
Japanese Maple trees add elegance and stunning color to landscape with their brilliant shades of red and green. Available in sizes from dwarf species to standard varieties that reach 25-feet tall, there is a variety suitable for every space. These slow-growing trees only grow 1 to 2 feet a year and are cold hardy down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
One of the easiest ways to figure out what type of mint is growing in your garden is to look at the flowers. Spearmint flowers grow in spikes of pink or white. Peppermint has purple flowers about one-quarter inch in length that form on thick spikes protruding from the stems. Apple mint forms long spikes that grow up to 4-inches, displaying white or pike flowers.
Growing 3-5 feet a year, and topping out at 60 feet tall, Green Giant arborvitae are perfect for hedges and privacy screens. They stay full and green year-round and are resistant to insect pest problems, as well as deer. These evergreens are adaptable to most hardiness zones if they have well-draining soil and plenty of room to grow.
Living in the desert doesn’t mean your garden has to be barren of fruit trees. Certain varieties of plum, apple, pomegranate, and peach thrive in the arid climates. Look for varieties with low-chill requirements that produce fruit that ripens before hot summer temperatures. Regardless of the type, make sure it’s given plenty of water and appropriate care.
The narrow pyramidal shape and decorate fan-shaped leaves of the Emerald Cedar make it a popular arborvitae species in landscapes. These plants thrive in growing zones 2 to 7, and grow to about 15 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide. Younger plants have a bright-yellow green foliage that deepens to emerald green with age.
It may sound unconventional, but rotting a tree stump out of the ground is a great alternative if grinding or burning it out isn’t feasible. After drilling holes into the stump, different chemicals are put into the holds to disintegrate the wood. This process needs to be repeated every month and can take up to 12 months to rot a stump to its roots.
The perfect plant for shady garden spots, hostas are prized for their large green leaves and low maintenance needs. In the fall it’s best to cut back or trim the leaves and flower stalks back to prepare them for winter. Plants can be cut significantly, leaving only small stems. In the spring they will grow robust new foliage free of diseases and pests.
Spirea shrubs should be pruned twice a year, in early spring and late fall, to keep plants looking full and lively. Colorful flowers grow on new shoots versus old wood. Pruning also allows sunlight to get into the middle of the plant and develop strong branches. Always make sure to use sharp pruning shears or a hedge trimmer, and the blades are clean.
Using prefabricated troughs are a convenient, easy way to container garden or raised bed garden. Look for wooden troughs that are made from cedar or teak, plastic composite troughs, cast concrete or stone containers, or metal troughs. Regardless of the type chosen, the trough needs drainage holes in the bottom to allow excess water to drain out.
Keeping your plants warm and safe during the winter months is important. You don’t want your months of hard work throughout the spring and summer months go to waste because your plant becomes dormant in the winter. Learn how to keep them warm.
Desert dwellers aren’t limited to cacti and native grasses in their landscapes. There are numerous trees such as the desert willow, sweet acacia, and Texas mountain laurel that thrive in arid, hot climates. Different varieties are available in varying heights, flowers colors, and growth habits.
Winter pansies add a pop of color into the dreary, cold winter season. They aren’t a specific type of pansy as all types are tolerant of temperatures down to 25°F, even continuing to bloom in the snow. They’re just planted in the fall from seeds or transplants for color all winter in zones 6 to 9.
The best time of year to plant bushes and trees is early to mid fall, giving the plant time to establish a healthy root system before spring. If this isn’t possible aim to plant in early spring just after the lost winter frost when the ground thaws. Planting in the summer leads to short roots that grow close to the surface.
Paddle plants are succulents that are native to South Africa, but make wonderful additions as houseplants. They have vivid colors and unique paddle-like leaves. Learn how to maintain one!
The gigantic, glossy leaves on the fiddle leaf fig make it an impressive houseplant. It can add character to the surrounding decor, while highlighting the plant’s beautiful features. Incorporate them into interior design to foster relaxation, create an illusion of movement, or help shrink high ceilings.
String of dolphins, or senecio peregrinus, have leaves that are known for their dolphin-like shape. Their flowing nature is beautiful when situated as a centerpiece or showcased in a hanging basket. Learn how to help your string of dolphins flourish.
Blue is a fascinating flower color, drawing the attention of many gardeners. Unfortunately blue plumeria do not exist although they are often falsely marketed and sold. Plumeria do come in shades of purple, but the plant cannot produce blue pigment. So beware if someone is trying to sell you one.