Category Archives: Blog

Mealybugs on Myrtle topiary

Posted on March 4, 2012 by

Your description is not very specific, so it is hard to be sure. However, your Myrtle topiary probably has an infestation of mealybugs, which are often described as looking like a fungus. Mealybugs look like tiny bits of soft cotton. … Continue reading →

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Pruning

Posted on March 4, 2012 by

Pruning potted plants is more about aesthetics than it is about horticulture. Pruning does not “enhance” a plant’s growth. It does alter its growth and its appearance. So asking if you should prune your Schefflera is like asking someone if … Continue reading →

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Peace Lily root rot

Posted on March 2, 2012 by

I have had a peace lily about 4 years. The leaves are turning black, and get really wrinkly. I have cut off leaves like this, and new shoots are coming out. But now more of the leaves are turning black. … Continue reading →

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Treating fungus gnat problems

Posted on November 13, 2011 by

The first thing you need to do is remove all loose soil that is not in direct contact with the roots. This will eliminate many of the gnat larvae because they mostly live in the surface soil.The most important thing … Continue reading →

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The psychology of plants

Posted on August 30, 2011 by

Many of us have intuitive reactions to our indoor plants that cause us to do (or not do) certain things with our plants that are not always in the best interest of the plants. Below are some examples. A plant … Continue reading →

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What healthy plants require

Posted on August 28, 2011 by

Most everyone knows that plants require good light and water to thrive. But few folks understand the importance of air for plants. Or at least they tend to take it for granted. While it is true that plants obtain carbon … Continue reading →

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Ficus dropping leaves

Posted on June 17, 2011 by

Question: I have a ficus tree given to me a month ago. My tree is losing leaves. I am not sure if I am over watering it. I tried watering it from the top but it seem I never could … Continue reading →

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Peace Lily repotting

Posted on June 17, 2011 by

Question: I repotted my Peace Lily and it has not returned to its normal state.  It has been drooping drooping.   Answer: Repotting is not something I usually recommend. That is because it is often unnecessary and because a lot … Continue reading →

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Fungus gnats

Posted on June 5, 2011 by

Question:   I am pretty sure I have fungus gnats and I have read your treatment  for them but was just wandering if any sand can be used on the soil to help get rid of the larvae ? Answer: … Continue reading →

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Repotting

Posted on June 5, 2011 by

Unnecessary repotting is by far the single most common plant care mistake. For a variety of reasons, folks believe it is a good idea to move  a newly acquired plant into a new and larger pot. Please, don’t do it! … Continue reading →

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