Latest Gardening News

It's not what St. Patrick used, but today's three-leaved shamrock can make a nice houseplant

Mar. 12, 2024 10:36 AM EDT

St. Patrick is believed to have used a three-leaf clover to explain the complexity of the Trinity to nonbelievers in 5th century Ireland. Ever since, the shamrock has been revered by the Irish and held as a symbol of good luck. The word shamrock is derived from the Celtic word...

For Women's History Month, a look at some trailblazers in American gardening and horticulture

Mar. 05, 2024 11:20 AM EST

Women have long been at the forefront of gardening, whether passing agricultural traditions from generation to generation, organizing garden clubs and beautification societies, or — in some cases — making significant contributions to science and landscape design. Some of these...

Tunisian authorities investigate a fire at a synagogue, question a suspect in custody

Mar. 02, 2024 10:27 AM EST

TUNIS, Tunisia (AP) — A man believed to have started a fire in a garden at a synagogue in the east of Tunisia is in custody and under investigation for targeting a Jewish house of worship, officials said Saturday. Hichem ben Ayad, the public prosecutor in the eastern port city of...

New varieties of tried-and-true vegetables invite gardeners to experiment

Feb. 27, 2024 09:00 AM EST

Tomatoes, garlic, chives, basil, parsley, thyme and sage have been permanent residents in my garden for ages. But every year, I experiment with new -– or new to me -- crops. Many turn out to be transient, like the Instagram-worthy Voyager tomatoes that disappointed in the flavor...

Dreaming of summer peaches? Some gardening tips for growing a peach tree in many climates

Feb. 20, 2024 09:52 AM EST

I planted my first peach tree last June, five months before Pantone named Peach Fuzz the 2024 color of the year. How serendipitous! Today peachy tones are showing up everywhere, from TV backdrops to home furnishings, clothing and brand logos. But for me, it’s not about the trend...

Are these groundcovers tough enough for lawns and gardens in dry climes?

Feb. 13, 2024 11:55 AM EST

Growing a lush lawn in the desert can feel like a losing battle. With the proper care, the warm-season Bermuda, zoysia and bahia grasses can hold up fairly well during summer, but when the weather cools enough to actually enjoy those lawns, they transform into a dormant carpet of straw. ...

Before you start seeds indoors, make sure they're not duds

Feb. 06, 2024 08:59 AM EST

I’ve had just about enough of winter and am itching to get my hands dirty. I can’t do that yet in my New York garden, but I have been distracting myself by growing microgreens and dwarf strawberries on the kitchen counter. It will be another month before I bring out my...

For a winter gardening project with a gourmet touch, try growing microgreens

Jan. 30, 2024 07:24 AM EST

Microgreens have been popping up as garnishes at high-end restaurants, but they’re more than just a gourmet trick of the trade. The 2-to-3-inch seedlings of edible plants, which add a burst of color and flavor to food, are packed with nutrients and can make for a fun winter...

Which vegetables to plant come spring? Depends on your taste — and your grocery bill

Jan. 29, 2024 08:35 AM EST

“What should I plant?” is a question new vegetable gardeners tend to ask me over winter, when planning their first gardens. In the past, I’ve always advised them to plant what they like. It may sound silly, but you’d be surprised at how many people pressure themselves into...

The shade-loving African violet is having its day in the sun

Jan. 16, 2024 08:53 AM EST

African violets, those cheerful, shade-loving houseplants native to Tanzania and introduced to the U.S. in the late 1800s, are finally having their day in the sun: the National Garden Bureau has named 2024 the Year of the African Violet. Violets in name only, the demure, 4- to...