Watermelon can be trickier to grow than its close relatives: cucumber and squash. But a combination of warm soil, steady moisture, and proper fertilization can lead to sweet success. Here are some important tips. Getting Started: Two Methods 1) Indoor Preparation & Transplanting 2) Direct Seeding Outdoors Water Watermelons require consistent soil moisture for best

Have you ever wondered if the poppy seeds on the bagel you’re eating come from the same poppy flower that produces opium? They actually do, but they have been scrubbed of the milky substance which forms illegal narcotics and therefore are perfectly safe to eat. Don’t be alarmed: The poppy flowers growing in your backyard are a different species! There are 120 varieties of poppies—only one of which you cannot grow in the US. Learn all about poppy flower history, nutrition, folklore, and tips for growing. Read on.

You may already be familiar with threatening browntail moth caterpillars—especially if you live in the northeastern US. Found primarily on the coast of Maine and Cape Cod, the dangers of browntail moth caterpillars are two-fold: They cause skin rashes and also feed on trees to the point of killing them. Due to their seasonal resurgence, this bothersome creature is receiving lots of attention lately. As the weather warms and people begin heading outdoors, browntail moth caterpillars are also emerging from their webs in the trees. For information on when and where to spot them, how to treat a browntail moth rash, and how to prevent your plant life from being destroyed, keep reading.

Think those cute little houses in the backyard are just for birds? Think again! They can be for bees, too. This year, as people become more aware of bee populations declining, bee houses are taking center stage as popular garden decorations. They are charming, valuable habitats for our essential pollinators. After all, we wouldn't be able to live without the bees! Learn how to save the bees simply: Hang a bee house today! Read on.

If you’ve been wondering if nature’s timing is off, you’re not alone! Reports of plants blooming at odd times and migratory birds showing up early or late are becoming more and more common. Climate change has made nature’s documented cycles unreliable, and we can no longer use a standard calendar to plan our gardens. This is why savvy gardeners are turning to "phenology," a practice which is more in-tune with nature and less dependent on set dates. Learn how to read Mother Nature's cues and plant in synch with the environment. Read on.

Plant Hardiness Zones are areas on a map that tell you which plants will do best where you live. They are based on the average lowest temperatures of each region of the US. Find your Plant Hardiness Zone using the official map above. Hardiness zones are sometimes referred to as “growing zones” or “gardener’s zones”

Grasshoppers seem like fun, nice bugs, but they aren't so good for your garden. For many cultures, they are a symbol of abundance and courage, but in reality they are generally considered to be pests. Want to learn how to safeguard your garden from them? Read more important info after the jump.

Yes, you can grow vegetables in dry climates or during droughts. Here is a list of the best vegetables to plant, as well as tips on how to keep things growing during dry conditions. Xeriscaping is a fancy word for a method of landscaping in dry climates. In addition to employing water conservation techniques, it

Is there such thing as a shade plant? Sure, that shady spot is a welcome respite especially during the Dog Days of Summer, but that same sun-hidden area can present a gardening challenge. The first step to figuring out shade plant options is understanding what type of shade you have. All shade is not equal.

Gardening trends 2022 - This year's garden trends emphasize environmental friendliness, reducing carbon footprints, and many more.