Plants

Hanging tomatoes: from toast in Spain to a question for our garden

A reader in Spain introduced us to penjar tomatoes: how they are stored, what makes them different and what growing them can teach us.

How to Harvest Lettuce Without Uprooting the Plant for a New Growth

Did you cut your lettuce and want it to grow back? Learn how to harvest outer leaves without damaging the center to extend your harvest.

Avocados in winter: protecting them from cold in pots and in the ground

What to do with a young avocado when cold weather arrives, how to protect it in a pot and when it may begin to overwinter with less help.

When and how to harvest parsley without weakening the plant

Where should you cut parsley to keep harvesting? Learn which stems to choose, how to protect the plant's centre and what changes when it starts flowering.

When to Plant the Crape Myrtle and How to Care for It in Your Garden

Want to add color to your garden? Learn when to plant the crape myrtle, what soil it needs, and how to achieve unique blooms.

When to Harvest Arugula for Tender Leaves and No Bitterness

Did your arugula turn out bitter or tough? Learn how to choose the right size and ideal time of day for a perfect peppery crunch.

When and How to Harvest Homegrown Lettuce Without It Turning Bitter

Did your harvested lettuce turn out bitter or tough? Learn how to spot the right moment and ideal time of day for crisp, sweet leaves.

How to grow round summer squash and zucchini: soil, flowers and harvest

Round summer squash or zucchini: learn what they need to grow well, why their flowers matter and how zinnias can bring pollinators into the garden.

How to Transplant Tomatoes in Spring

Before transplanting tomatoes in spring, check frost risk, seedling readiness, support, growing space and how to move the plant into its final place.

How to keep your lettuce tender through spring and summer

Is your lettuce turning tough or bitter? Learn how to water it, protect it from heat and harvest a little at a time.

Which plants should not share the same pot

Want to combine several plants in one pot? Learn which can share a space and which are better kept apart because of their water, light and growth needs.

Why You Should Add Zinnias to Your Garden and How to Grow Them

Colorful, easy and popular with pollinators: learn to sow zinnias, care for them through summer and save seed for next season.

Why You Should Grow Sunflowers in Your Garden

Sunflowers add height, flowers, seeds and visitors to the garden. Learn when to sow them and how to enjoy their whole cycle.

Why Adding Flowers Can Completely Change Your Vegetable Garden

Flowers, bees, hoverflies, ladybugs and other visitors can transform a garden. Discover what to plant and how to make room for them.

Why Growing Plants Together Can Improve Your Garden and Protect the Soil

Combining crops can help use space, cover soil and add diversity. Learn what to consider and how the milpa system works.

How to Grow Squash in Small Patios and Balconies with Supports or Containers

Squash in a small space? Choose the right variety, give it a large container or sturdy support, and make the most of vertical growth.

Types of Basil for Your Garden: Green, Purple and Perennial

Not all basil is the same: discover green, purple and perennial types, how their flavors differ and which may work best in your space.

Marigolds in Your Garden: More Than Yellow Flowers, They're Crop Allies

Marigolds attract pollinators and may help manage some nematodes. Learn what they really do and how to grow them in garden beds or containers.

Flowering Peach Trees: A Guide to Cultivation and Care

Expert guide on selecting sunny spots, preparing soil, and basic watering and pruning for peach trees.

When and How to Sow Parsley at Home

A guide to sowing parsley directly in spring or autumn, or using seedlings. Covers ideal light, soil, and watering for home cultivation.

Growing Arugula at Home: Ideal Seasons and Essential Care

Sow arugula in spring or fall, choose loose, sunny soil. Water constantly and harvest tender leaves for a peppery flavor.

Growing Spinach in Small Spaces: Location, Soil, Planting, and Care

A guide to growing spinach at home, covering site selection, soil preparation, cool-weather planting, and general watering and pest management.

Growing Scallions at Home: A Step-by-Step Guide

Learn how to plant scallions at home, from choosing the right spot and soil to watering and harvesting for a fresh supply.

Homegrown Lettuce Cultivation: Basic Steps for Fresh Greens

A guide to growing lettuce at home, covering site selection, soil, planting, watering, and harvesting.