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Garden Variety: Flowers’ colorful history as symbols and gifts

Fresh flowers and plants are given as symbols of caring, friendship, love, remembrance and other sentiments. And although this is true year-round, the Society of American Florists says that Valentine’s Day tops the list for sales. Have you ever wondered how flowers became unspoken words, ...

Garden Variety: Should you remove vines from trees?

English ivy, Virginia creeper and other perennial vines are sometimes found growing up the trunks of trees in landscapes and wooded areas. They are more obvious in winter months than other times of year because of the lack of greenery on affected trees. Most experts recommend removing vines ...

Garden Variety: Where — and when — to source your seeds

Seeds for vegetables, herbs, and flowers are available through a variety of sources. Those who are new to the gardening world often ask which source is best, and experienced gardeners often look for sources they might have missed in the past. The best source for your seeds depends on what ...

Garden Variety: Prevent pests from harming your indoor plants

Aphids, mealybugs, scale insects, spider mites and thrips are plant pests that cause significant damage to indoor plants in winter months when left unmanaged. Gardeners have many options for control of these pests but should use caution with home remedies that can cause even more harm to their ...

Garden Variety: Growing plants can be good for mental, physical health

Gardeners are from all walks of life and have interests ranging from indoor tropical plants, food (fruit and vegetable) production, native plants, pollinator and wildlife habitats, traditional lawns and landscapes, and any combination of those. The arrival of the new year is the perfect time to ...