More Native Wonders Last week I wrote about wildflowers that you might not even know were wild. There are several new books out that take a closer look at wildflowers. If you're the type who finds yourself asking "Oh, what's that?" when you walk through the woods, these might be of interest....Read Full Post Source: About.com Gardening

Divide and Multiply - Plants Spring is a great time to divide your over-grown perennials, so if you're still putting it off, get moving. Division won't just extend the life of your plants, it will give you more of them. It's a lot easier to divide clumping plants while they're short and manageable. And since they're actively growing, any damage from stress is quickly repaired. Amanda Switzer walks you through the steps of dividing perennials in this quick video....Read Full Post Source: About.com Gardening

Here's Why Radishes Get Hard and Woody? Everyone says radishes are one of the easiest vegetables to grow. They certainly grow quickly, which is why they're often recommended for gardening with small, impatient kids. They grow so quickly you don't have a chance to catch, let alone fix mistakes. And there are a handful of easily avoidable mistakes that can cause radish growing disappointment. Tough, woody radishes were probably grown too slowly. That happens when the temperature starts to warm up and encourage more top growth, slowing the bulb growth and  also when radishes don't get enough regular water to plump them up. ...

Leeks Gone Wild When I wrote about ramps last year, I mentioned that their surge in popularity was making them as pricy as truffles. I've seen several new ramps festivals popping up in my area and I've also noticed a lot of new detractors speaking up. A sure sign they've made it to the big time....Read Full Post Source: About.com Gardening

Wild and Wonderful Flowers This is a great time of year to take a walk and enjoy the "weeds" growing off the beaten path. Wildflowers have been getting a lot of attention lately, but they're hardly a fad. There was a time when every child was taught the names and uses of their regional wildflowers. I wish I had....Read Full Post Source: About.com Gardening

And the Orchid Wins! The winners of the February / March Indoor Plants photo challenge have been chosen and once again, we have an orchid as the winner. As lovely as orchids are, it ...Read Full Post Source: About.com Gardening

Vertical Gardens in Mexico a Symbol of Progress Eco-sculptures are the latest indication that Mexico City has become a leader in environmental efforts for the developing world. Source: NYT > Organic Gardening

Butteryfly? Moth? Does it Matter? Ever wonder how to tell the difference between a butterfly and a moth? I tend to call the beautifully colored ones butterflies and the drab ones moths, but as About's Insect Guide, Debbie Hadley, points out, there are some beautiful moths like the neon green luna moth. Actually there are some clear and easy to spot differences between butterflies and moths and Debbie's listed them for us. Take a look. It pays to know what's floating around your garden....Read Full Post Source: About.com Gardening

Potato Puzzlement I saw my first dandelion last week and when I see dandelions I, of course, think potatoes. One of nature's planting cues is to get your potatoes in the ground when the first dandelion blooms. Usually I'm prepared - but usually the dandelions don't put in an appearance until the end of April....Read Full Post Source: About.com Gardening

Keeping Your Easter Lily Blooming Easter lilies are filling the garden centers. They're even on grocery store shelves.  All lilies are beautiful, but the simple purity of the white Easter Lily is captivating. Choose a lily plant with lots of buds - some tight, some starting to open - and it will bloom throughout the season. Then try planting it outside, in a spot of honor in your garden. Success isn't guaranteed, but what do you have to lose by trying?  Follow these tips for caring for your Easter lily plant and keeping it going. [Note: All lilies are extremely toxic to cats and can cause kidney failure. Choose a different ...