thegirlwithashovel

Top Sites for Indoor Plant Identification

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Hey everyone! So… starting out knowing nothing about plants, it has taken me years to learn the names of all of them. Even today I sometimes have to look up the name of an awesome new plant that I saw. That’s why good indoor plant identification sites are a great tool to use. And it is important to know which plant you own. 

Knowing your plant is the first crucial step towards keeping it alive and healthy! So check out some of these indoor plant identification sites today!

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The first site that I recommend for plant identification is called Houseplant 411. This site has great images that can be selected and enlarged for correct plant identification! The picture guide also includes growing information and frequently asked questions about each unique plant. I found this to be very helpful, especially for anyone who needs specific information on how to care for their plant.

Check out Houseplant 411!

My next top site for indoor plant identification is called Houseplant Experts. This website not only has a comprehensive A-Z list of houseplants, but it also has a forum that you can join! 

By creating a free account, you can post a picture of your plant, as well as questions about names, care tips, etc. This way you can get the help that you need, as well as join an awesome community of plant lovers!

Check out Houseplant Experts!

My next site is Tropicopia online. This site is actually an indoor plant database for interior designers, which makes it incredibly thorough. Tropicopia  has many different varieties of each plant, so the database is rather large. 

I’d recommend finding out the general type of plant (plant genus) through a different site first, then go here if you want to find out the specific plant variety.

Check out Tropicopia online!

This next site is surprisingly awesome for plant identification! Facebook (specifically Facebook groups) can really help you to identify and get tips on how to care for your indoor plants. I’m part of several groups myself and am always amazed at how fast people respond to posts asking to identify their houseplants! 

There is also always a lot of people showing off their new, unique plants that can give you plenty of inspiration for your own home!

Below are a few of the great Facebook Groups that I love!

House Plant Lovers
Succulents, Tiny Gardens, & Terrariums
House Plant Hobbyist
Houseplant Hoarders

I hope these sites help you to correctly identify your plants! If you have any other questions, or comments, feel free to leave a comment below!

Happy digging!

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Rubber Tree Plant Care

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The Rubber Plant, Ficus elastica, is one awesome plant for the indoors. Not only is it super popular and can be found at many of the mainstream gardening centers, but it has also gained this popularity for being showy and relatively easy to care for! But the big question is, how do you take care of it? No one wants to spend money on a beautiful plant, just to see it die within a month. That’s just sad. So here are some tips to keep your rubber plant green and healthy!

*If you don’t yet have one of these cool plants, you can get one here!*

**Note: This post contains affiliate links, which if purchased, I will receive a portion of the profits at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with this awesome information!**

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Rubber Plant Light Requirements

Rubber plants are a bit more precise when it comes to light. They like bright, but indirect light. That means a nice sunny room, without being right in front of the window. If it has to be in some direct sunlight, it would prefer morning light, when the sun still isn’t too harsh. Some signs to look for are if the plant starts stretching out and the lower leaves drop, then your plant needs more light. If the leaves are full, but are drooping downwards, then you need to decrease the amount of light.

Rubber Plant Water Requirements

Rubber plants have two different seasons. Growing season and dormant season. Growing season occurs during the summer and this is when it needs the most water and likes to be fertilized. During the dormant season, your plant needs much less water (sometimes needing water as little as once a month!) Just make sure that your plant is in well-draining soil, as well as in a well-draining pot. This little guy hates to be sitting in water. Here’s a rule of thumb for your watering… if the leaves turn yellow or brown and fall off, then it is getting too much water. If the leaves are drooping, but don’t fall off, then your plant needs more water. For more tips on how to water your houseplants, click on the link here!

Additional Tips

If you’re worried about killing your plant as soon as it gets home, then try starting small. A smaller plant will acclimate much easier to a new environment than a larger plant will. Then if you want it to grow faster, you can put it outside during the summer (but still make sure it isn’t in direct sunlight, it receives plenty of time to acclimatize, and it receives plenty of water). In contrast, if you want your rubber plant to stay smaller, keep it in a smaller pot and trim the ends once it reaches the preferred height. This will stop its upward growth and will instead encourage further branching.

A few more things to look out for… Don’t place your rubber tree where there are cold drafts. This is sure to kill your tree. And if you’re living in a cold, drafty basement, then believe me when I say from experience that none of your ficus plants will survive! You’ll be much better off with a non-tropical plant.

Also, make sure that you clean the foliage often so that the leaves stay shiny and will be as healthy as possible.

*Note: Rubber plants are toxic to dogs and cats. For a list of plants that are toxic to pets, check out my post here. Or, for a list of non-toxic houseplants, check out my post here!*

That’s all for growing tips for Ficus elastica! If you have any more tips or fun stories about your own rubber plants, feel free to leave a comment! And if you don’t have one of these amazing plants yet, grab one from the link below!

Happy Digging!

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Common Flowers that are Toxic to Pets

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Hey y’all! So I know that everyone is looking for just the right gift for the Mom in their life, and being a Mom myself, I’d say you can never go wrong with a bouquet of flowers! There’s just something cheery about flowers that makes everyone smile. So go ahead and get your Mom, wife, or just someone special in your life (why not!) a gift of flowers! Just make sure that if they have pets, try to avoid some of these flowers. After all, you wouldn’t want to spend Mother’s Day, (or any other day) at the vet because your precious little ball of fur got his fill of the flowers too. So scroll down for the list of flowers to avoid, and check out this awesome post about safe flowers to use instead!

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Flowers Toxic to Pets #1 – Bulbs

Heads up… most bulbs are toxic to pets. Especially the actual bulb part of the plant. In cut flowers, this includes hyacinths, iris, tulips, daffodils, amaryllis, lilies, and gladiolas. And because a picture is worth a thousand words, here are the main ones you should avoid in your bouquet…

#2 – Mums and Dahlias

I know that these are some of the most common flowers found in bouquets. But yes, they are indeed toxic to pets. And remember that these flowers can look quite different depending on the variety, so if you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to ask the florist for proper identification! *Mums are short for chrysanthemums… florists will call them by both names…

#3 – Low Toxicity Flowers

These two flowers may not be deadly, but they are still worth avoiding if your pet likes to nibble on your plants. These are baby’s breath and carnations. I know, I know… Two more insanely common bouquet flowers…

#4 – Potted Plants

Though not technically cut flowers, I thought I should throw these two flowering plants in just to be safe. Some of the most common potted plants that are sold for Mother’s Day (and for several other holidays) are azaleas and gardenias. Though they are extremely beautiful, they are also toxic to pets and should be kept out of reach of curious pets, or should only be kept indoors (or outdoors, depending on your pet’s situation). An added tip, however, is that azaleas and gardenias are extremely difficult to keep as an indoor plant. For other options in plant-giving, check out my post on non-toxic houseplants for pets. The plants in this post are generally easier to keep alive and your pet-owner will thank you!

So that’s my list of cut flowers that are toxic to pets! Make sure to check out this helpful post that will tell you which flowers you should buy for pet-owners! It also includes a FREE Printout that you can use as a handy reminder when purchasing flowers! So enjoy this little freebie and please leave any further questions or comments below!

Happy Digging!

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14 Easiest Succulents to Grow Indoors

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Hey y’all! So here’s a post I’ve been wanting to write for a while. Mainly because succulent plants are so awesome, but can be tricky too! When I bought my first succulent, I definitely had to adjust my normal indoor-plant thinking. But once you get a few tricks down, then these little guys can be a breeze! Especially the succulents on this list. This list of the best indoor succulents to grow are both easy to keep alive and are the best succulents for beginners!

Basic Succulent Care

Real quick… if you are a beginner with succulents I wanted to point out a few tips on basic succulent care. First, make sure that you are using a pot with drainage holes. This is ESSENTIAL for succulent plants. Also, make sure that you are using a light, airy mix and a pot that isn’t too large for your little succulents. 

Next, while most succulents love full sun, not all succulents are accustomed to hot, afternoon sunlight. The best way for your indoor plants is to start your succulents in bright, indirect light and gradually acclimate your new plant to more direct sunlight. Any discoloration is a sign that your plant is being stressed and either needs more water or it needs less direct sunlight.

For more information on how to care for succulents, check out my blog post on succulent care tips!

**Note: This post contains affiliate links, which if purchased, I will receive a portion of the profits at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with this awesome information!**

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Easiest Succulents to Grow #1: Aloe – Aloe vera

This is a great place to start! Not only is the aloe vera plant very attractive, but it is also widely used for its medicinal properties. Just cut off a leaf/stem and rub the juices onto a burn or a wound (just be sure that you aren’t one of those few who are sensitive to it first).

To ensure a healthy aloe vera plant, make sure you allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Also try to give it at least a couple hours of direct sunlight each day. This plant can have sharp edges on its leaves, so make sure that it isn’t in a location where people might brush against it and get scraped. Only repot plant it once the roots are starting to push out of the pot. Follow these guidelines, and you’ll have a super easy, super useful, and super awesome little succulent! Get it here!

Aloe vera is the first on my list of the easiest succulents to grow indoors!

Easiest Succulents to Grow #2: String of Pearls – Senecio rowleyanus

String of pearls is great for any beginner who loves hanging baskets. Used as a filler or as a main specimen, string of pearls looks almost unreal! Make sure that this little guy gets plenty of bright light, but don’t keep it in direct afternoon sun. It usually doesn’t need too much watering, but if it is in a warm climate and gets lots of bright light, then it may need a moderate amount of water. Just keep an eye on it and adjust accordingly. Get it here!

String of beads plant is the second on my list of the easiest succulents to grow indoors!

Easiest Succulents to Grow #3: Paddle Pant – Kalanchoe tetraphylla

This succulent definitely makes a statement in any modern-style home! With its red-tinted leaves and geometric shape, this succulent looks great in many different styles of containers. Make sure that it is only watered once the soil has become dry on the top. Don’t expose it to direct, hot sunlight, but do give it plenty of bright, indirect light to keep the edges red. Get it here!

Paddle plant is the third on my list of the easiest succulents to grow indoors!

Easiest Succulents to Grow #4: Jade Plant – Crassula ovata

Jade plant is one of my favorite succulents! I love that it can grow from a simple cutting up to the size of a small tree! Some tips to succeed with this plant is to not over-water it. Wait until the soil dries out completely before watering. But don’t wait until its leaves look dull or withered. This means you’ve waited for too long and most likely those leaves will eventually fall off. So find a happy medium, but err on the side of dry. Another nice thing about the jade plant is that because of its small root system, you won’t need to re-pot it that often. So sit back and enjoy the beauty of this large, but easy succulent! Get it here!

Jade is the fourth on my list of the easiest succulents to grow indoors!

Easiest Succulents to Grow #5: Panda Plant – Kalanchoe tomentosa

This is another very cute succulent! Named for its fuzzy leaves, the panda plant can flower, but it is very rare indoors. So don’t count on it flowering, but instead enjoy the beautiful shape and tinted edges of this easy-to-grow succulent. Make sure that it dries out between watering and that it receives lots of bright, indirect sunlight. It can also deal with a few hours of direct sunlight in the morning, but keep it away from the strong afternoon sun. Also, this plant doesn’t grow well in cold drafts. Get it here!

Panda plant is the fifth on my list of the easiest succulents to grow indoors!

Easiest Succulents to Grow #6 Burro’s Tail – Sedum morganianum

Here’s another great succulent to put into a hanging basket. Burro’s tail has thick rows of cascading leaves that can grow up to 2-3 feet long! However, place this little guy somewhere it won’t be disturbed because the leaves will fall off with the slightest touch. If you have young kids, I wouldn’t suggest this one for you. Go with the String of Pearls instead. But Burro’s Tail is pretty low-maintenance, especially during the wintertime when the plant enters dormancy and won’t need much watering at all. And this succulent can do well with bright to medium sun and can even be brought outdoors during the summer as long as it is carefully acclimated. Get it here!

Burro's Tail is the sixth succulent on my list of the easiest succulents to grow indoors!

Easiest Succulents to Grow #7: Lithops

Lithops have recently returned in popularity and it’s no surprise why! They are super easy to grow indoors, are low-growing and come in a wide variety of colors and designs. They can also bloom if given enough sunlight. These plants do well in poor soils, but need to stay well-drained and dislike too much water. Lithops also go through a dormant period in the winter where they will need little to no watering at all (depending on your climate). So enjoy these pretty, unique succulents! Get it here!

Lithops is the seventh succulent on my list of the easiest succulents to grow indoors!

Easiest Succulents to Grow #8: Pincushion Cactus – Mammillaria

Pincushion Cactus is a very pretty cactus that got its name from its very sharp thorns! This guy needs plenty of space as each needle has a hooked end that can be hard to get out of the skin. So once again, I wouldn’t suggest this plant for people with young children in the home. Pincushion Cactus is fairly easy to maintain, however. It just requires a lot of sunlight (if you have a bright south-facing window, that would be best). The soil also needs to dry out before its next watering. Pincushion Cactus will also need a period of no watering (during the wintertime) to allow it to go into dormancy. This is needed if you want it to produce those gorgeous pink flowers! Get it here!

Easiest Succulents to Grow #9: Snake Plant – Sansevieria trifasciata

This is another of my favorite indoor succulents as it’s one of the few thick, fleshy-leaved plants that does well in low light conditions. It is also on my list of Top 10 Hard to Kill Houseplants. And… it is also one of the large succulents that is also easy to grow! With its bright, vertical lines, Snake Plant (also called mother-in-law’s tongue) does well in any room. Make sure to let the soil dry out between watering and plant in a well-draining soil. If left too wet, it may start to rot at the base. If given higher amounts of indirect lights, it is more likely to keep its colorful markings. Prune out any damaged leaves to keep it looking fresh and healthy, but know that once the tip has been clipped, it will no longer grow in height. Get it here!

Snake Plant is number nine on my list of the easiest succulents to grow indoors!

Easiest Succulents to Grow #10: Zebra Cactus – Haworthia fasciata

Zebra Cactus is another of my favorite succulents because it is so easy to grow! Seriously, my 1-year-old got a hold of several of my succulents, killing several (sad day!), but being ripped out of its soil and tossed around the living room didn’t even seem to phase this guy! It has definitely earned its spot here on my list of easiest to grow succulents. I’ve heard some people say that the tips are sharp, but they aren’t too sharp in my opinion. It also helps that this succulent stays small, so there won’t be any worries of it outgrowing its space. Just re-pot every year or two with fresh, well-draining soil to give it needed nutrients. This cactus can also do well in a shallow pot, as its roots stay in the top portion of the soil. Make sure that your Zebra Cactus stays in bright, but indirect sunlight. Hot, direct sunlight can burn the leaves.For more care information, check out my post, Zebra Plant Succulent Care! Or you can purchase one here!

Haworthia is number ten on my list of the easiest succulents to grow indoors!

Easiest Succulents to Grow #11: Air Plants – Tillandsia

Air plants have recently gained more popularity due to the fact that they don’t require any soil to grow. However, they do need to be watered and given proper attention or they will die. But once you get a few simple tricks down, all of your air plants will thrive! So first, make sure that you water it correctly. This consists of lightly misting it once or twice a week (depending on how much light it is getting), and soaking it once a week for several hours. Then make sure that it completely dries out! This is one of my beginner mistakes with this plant. I bought one that was already glued into a glass orb and when it came time to dry it out, it was extremely difficult. This was because it couldn’t get enough airflow to it to allow it to dry out completely. So make sure that it soaks it all up, but then has plenty of time to completely dry out! For more care information, check out my post on Air Plant Care, or my post on How to Water Air Plants! Or you can purchase one here!

Air plants are number eleven on my list of the easiest succulents to grow indoors!

Easiest Succulents to Grow #12: Hens and Chicks

Next, is Hens and Chicks. Both Sempervivum and Echeveria species are often called Hens and Chicks because they not only look very similar, but they also both create small offshoots, or what is referred to as the ‘chicks’ part of the plant. These small chicks can be cut off and re-potted for more plants. Hens and Chicks does best in bright, indirect light, but can also tolerate some light shade. Just make sure that it is in well-draining potting soil and that it dries out a bit between watering. They will also need very little water in the winter months as they enter a dormancy period. And also make sure to keep water off the leaves while watering, as it can cause them to be permanently marked. Get it here!

Hen and chicks are number twelve on my list of the easiest succulents to grow indoors!

Easiest Succulents to Grow #13: Ponytail Palm

Ponytail palm is another succulent that is extremely forgiving as long as you don’t overwater it. Keep it in soil that is well-draining and this amazing semi-succulent will grow beautiful curly leaves that will give you a bouncy, light appearance. My last bit of advice for this plant is that cats seem to love chewing on this plant’s leaves. So if you have a feline friend, then I would suggest you choose a different one of these easy succulents and leave the ponytail palm to a pet-free zone.

Easiest Succulents to Grow #14: Christmas Cactus

Another succulent that is incredibly easy to care for is the Christmas cactus! Now I’m grouping in the Thanksgiving cactus together with these tropical cacti known as holiday cacti. These cacti actually do best in partial shade and higher humidity levels than the typical succulent. These, combined with the beautiful flowers that come in the winter, this cactus is not one to miss! For more information on how to care for christmas cactus, check out this post on christmas cactus care!

So there’s my list of 14 Easiest Succulents to Grow Indoors! I hope you found the tips helpful! Make sure to check out my other post on Top 10 Hard to Kill Houseplants that includes the easiest non-succulent type plants to grow indoors as well. I hope you all have success growing some of these awesome succulents and feel free to leave any additional tips or questions below!

Happy Digging!

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15 Fire Resistant Perennials

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Looking at making your yard more fire-safe? Check out my previous post on creating a fire-safe yard, and check out this awesome list of fire-resistant perennial plants!

So what makes a plant fire-resistant? Mainly, plants are fire-resistant if they are free of sap or resin that can easily catch fire, as well as they have more water stored in their leaves, making them harder to burn. There are a surprising number of fire-resistant plants available for the landscape, giving you plenty of options for your specific style. However, remember that no plant is fire-proof and can still catch fire depending on fire intensity and weather patterns. But, planting fire-resistant plants will give your home an added measure of protection and might just buy you some needed time.*

Here’s the list!

**Note: This post contains affiliate links, which if purchased, I will receive a portion of the profits at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with this awesome information!**

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#1: Coneflower – Echinacea purpurea

Coneflower is not only fire-resistant, but it is also one of my favorites to see in the landscape! Bright purple, pink, and white flowers bloom on long stems that are perfect for cut flower arrangements. They are also low-water and like full sun. Coneflower also attracts butterflies, and is deer resistant. What an awesome plant! (Hardiness zones 3-8)

Get your coneflower here!

#2: Blanket Flower – Gaillardia var.

Blanket flower reminds me of a Native American blanket spread out along the yard. How pretty! Beautiful blooms range in combinations of red, orange, yellow, and gold will fill your space from early summer to early fall. These large blooms attract butterflies and do well as cut flowers on the taller varieties. Blanket flower prefers full sun, but is also low-water and does well in drought conditions. (Hardiness zones 3-9)

Find it here!

#3: Plantain Lily – Hosta spp.

Plantain Lily, also known as Hostas, do well in the shade garden. Ranging in leaf color from blue-green to silver, these hardy perennials are known for their gorgeous foliage. Their flowers are also pretty, but often overshadowed by the patterned leaves. In colder climates hostas will die back in the wintertime, but will send up new shoots in the spring! Just make sure that when new plants are getting established that they stay moist, but not wet. It is easy for hostas to get crown rot if its base gets too much water. (Hardiness zones 3-9)

Get some amazing hostas here!

#4: Trumpet Vine – Campsis radicans

Trumpet vine is a beautiful vining plant that produces orange and red flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds. While some people would tell you to never plant trumpet vine due to its tendency to become invasive, it can be controlled if given the time necessary. Regular and heavy pruning, as well as proper placement and care for suckers will keep this fast growing vine under control. Make sure to have a sturdy support, as well as don’t place it near any buildings or have it climb up trees to avoid damage. All in all, this is a very beautiful, fast-growing vine, but needs to only be planted by those who have the time and dedication to keep it under control. (Hardiness zones 4-9)

Find it here!

#5: Columbine – Aquilegia spp.

Columbine is also one of my favorite plants! Flowers come in any color of the rainbow and will bloom all summer long! Plant columbine in partial shade and it will be extremely low maintenance and drought tolerant. These plants are short-lived, but will readily re-seed. New plants will take 2-3 years to flower, but will still produce the unique, clover-shaped leaves of mature plants. In addition to being fire-resistant, these plants are also deer resistant, as well as attract butterflies and hummingbirds. What an awesome plant! (Hardiness zones 3-9)

Find it here!

#6: Lavender – Lavandula spp.

This well-known plant will be very resistant to flames as long as it is kept moist. Lavender is extremely popular due to its natural scent, beneficial oils, and pretty purple or white blooms. What some people might not know, however, is that Lavender is also fairly drought tolerant and attracts butterflies, hummingbirds, and is deer resistant. No wonder so many people have this in their yards! (Hardiness zones 4-8)

Find it here!

#7: Coreopsis – Coreopsis spp.

Coreopsis’ bright yellow flowers are hard to miss! A great self-seeder, most plants are perennials, though they do have some annual varieties available. Once established, these little plants are very drought tolerant. They can also tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates. Deadheading spent flowers can prolong bloom time, but if left on, coreopsis seeds are a great source of food for birds during the wintertime! (Hardiness zones 4-9)

Find it here!

#8: Delphinium – Delphinium spp.

Delphinium is often thought of as a somewhat difficult plant to care for. However, with proper care, anyone with the right conditions can grow these amazing stalks of color. Just make sure that your delphinium gets plenty of morning sun, but has some shade in the afternoon, especially in hot climates. Also, make sure that this little guy stays moist. Delphinium doesn’t like to dry out. Varieties include flowers ranging from the classic blue to red, white, and lavender. Make sure that any tall flower stalks are properly staked or else they can easily break off. (Hardiness zones 3-7)

Find it here!

#9: Yarrow – Achillea spp.

This low-maintenance plant is perfect for the fire-resistant yard! With blooms in red, yellow, orange, purple, or white, anyone can find the perfect spot for these drought-tolerant plants. Just make sure to provide full sun and well-draining soil. Deadheading throughout the summer will ensure nearly constant blooms and add lots of color to your yard. (Hardiness zones 3-9)

Check out this yellow variety!

#10: Sage – Salvia spp.

This multi-use plant is great for not only the outdoors, but can also be dried and used in the kitchen! Sage leaves are what is used for the popular seasoning, but plants will also produce white, purple, pink, or blue flowers in late spring. This aromatic plant will also attract butterflies and birds into your garden! So consider this as a great fire-resistant plant that will also give you a great harvest. (Hardiness zones 5-9)

Find it here!

#11: Penstemon – Penstemon spp.

Penstemons are a great drought-tolerant, low-maintenance plant! With stunning purple, pink, blue, white, yellow, or red flower spikes, this plant is sure to draw attention as a specimen plant, or provide a colorful background when planted in groups. Plant in full sun and once established, these tough perennials will only need infrequent, deep watering. These tall flowers will also attract plenty of bees and hummingbirds to your yard. (Hardiness zones 3-8)

Find it here!

#12: Yucca – Yucca spp.

Yuccas are one of the most common desert plants grown in the landscape. Their sword-like leaves come in many shades of greens and blues and can even be variegated with yellow and white. Yuccas produce large white flowers in the late summer and will grow in very poor soil conditions. Just make sure to not overwater as this plant doesn’t like to stay wet. This low-maintenance, drought-resistant plant is perfect for the fire-resistant yard! (Hardiness zones 4-11)

Find it here!

#13: Honeysuckle – Lonicera spp.

Honeysuckle vines are among the same classification as trumpet vine in the fact that they can also become invasive if not properly cared for. Make sure to keep this vine (or groundcover) well contained in a specific area. Then make sure to do some heavy pruning every fall. Honeysuckle also does well in full sun to partial shade, but if the top is allowed to grow too big, it can overshadow the lower vines, causing them to lose some of their leaves and become more of a woody plant. To avoid this, make sure that you thin out the top branches to allow some light to reach the lower portion of the plant. Once this fast grower is tamed, however, you can sit back and enjoy this fragrant beauty! (Hardiness zones 4-9)

Find it here!

#14: Evening Primrose – Oenothera spp.

There are many different reasons to grow this native flower in your yard. Not only is it fire-resistant, but Evening Primrose is also grown for its medicinal and culinary use. Soft pink, yellow, and white blooms open every evening and stay open through the night. They grow well from seed and thrive in full sun to partial shade. This hardy annual (or perennial depending on your climate and variety) is also drought-tolerant once established and the seeds are also edible for human consumption as well as a popular attraction for birds. (Hardiness zones 3-11)

Get some seed here!

#15: Daylily – Hemerocallis spp.

Daylilies are another of my favorite plants! These little guys have thick, grass-like leaves that soften any border in the landscape. Their blooms rise above the plant and show off large, star-shaped flowers that come in thousands of different colors and varieties. Daylilies do well in full sun to partial shade and need only a moderate amount of water. Once established they need very little care besides thinning them out every several years.  (Hardiness zones 3 to 9)

For a colorful collection, get it here!

There’s my list of fire-resistant plants! There are many more than these, I just went with some of the more common plants that are easily found in the local garden center. Just remember that no plant is fire-proof, but that plants listed as fire-resistant will be much harder to get a flame going than other common landscape plants. And for tips on how to create a fire-resistant yard, check out my post here!

Happy digging!

*Note: This is in no way a means of providing insurance against fire. All content is the author’s opinion and is thereby not liable for any damages to any person or property, whether brought about by fire or any other causes.*

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How to Create a Fire Resistant Yard

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These past few weeks I’ve been thinking a lot about fire resistant landscaping.

As some of you might know, I was raised in Northern California.

Over the past several months, large portions of Northern California have burnt in some of the largest wildfires ever recorded in the area. It is devastating for the many people who have lost loved ones in these fires. It is also difficult to imagine how many people have lost their homes and all of their possessions over the last several months. I hope that we can all pray for and send our aid to those affected.

Now, this made me think. Northern California isn’t the only area that is affected by wildfires. I hear about fires in Southern California every year. Not to mention all the other fires that happen throughout the United States. So what can we do to help with all of this, as well as to help protect our own homes? We can create a fire-resistant yard!

Let’s help out our local firefighters and create spaces where they can be safe, while they protect our homes and our lives.

*Note: This is not meant to be fire insurance. Fire damage is dependent upon the strength of the fire, as well as the weather conditions. There is no guarantee that your home will not be affected by nearby fires.*

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**Note: This post contains affiliate links, which if purchased, I will receive a portion of the profits at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with this awesome information!**

Here’s how to create a fire-resistant yard:

Mark a space all around your home that is at least 30 feet wide. Designate this as the fire-safe zone!

Remove all dead and dying plant material, as well as any trash or weeds that are also flammable. Make sure to rake up all leaves and pine needles and to also remove them from rooftops and rain gutters. Also remove any wood piles from within this 30 foot radius.

Give the plants space! Trim back any tree branches that are touching (leaving a minimum of 10 feet between branches). Trim bushes and grasses to keep space open around them.  Also trim up tree branches to keep space open between tops of shrubs and low-hanging limbs. Make sure that there is also space between shrubs and the sides of the house and that there are no tree branches overhanging the roof.

Consider installing non-flammable hardscape within this area. This would be materials such as pavers, gravel, and stone.

Last, but definitely not least, consider replacing some of your plant material with fire-resistant plants. This doesn’t mean to just plant cactus and succulents (though if it’s what you want, then go for it!). But there are many different types of beautiful plants that are resistant to fire. Check out my list here!

So that’s my list of things to do to make your yard more fire resistant. Let’s do our part to keep our homes, our neighborhoods, and our firefighters safe from wildfires!

Happy Digging!

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Buying Succulents Online

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Here’s the deal… I live in a small town. And in a small town, there just aren’t that many options for buying indoor plants. I’ve always wanted to try out some succulents, but I never found any good options around here. And so with this frustration on my mind, I decided to try buying some online…

**Note: This post contains affiliate links, which if purchased, I will receive a portion of the profits at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with this awesome information!**

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After looking at several different sites, I found some decent prices on Amazon. I was a bit skeptical at first. I mean, who buys their plants off of Amazon?! But even though I had my doubts, I went ahead and ordered. And I’m glad that I did. Here’s what I thought…

First off, the plants arrived within the week. Not as fast as picking them up from a garden center, but then again, it was shipped straight to me (which is helpful saving a trip). I got a variety of succulents (5 different types to be exact) and did I mention, they were delivered right to my door! Having kids, it’s especially helpful when I can just answer the door and get a box with exactly what I wanted inside. Not too bad!

Pro’s to Buying Succulents Online

I also got them delivered in the middle of the winter! I don’t know about you, but up here in Idaho the garden center is closed about 9 months out of the year. So to get plants in the middle of winter totally satisfied my winter need for something green!

Some more little details… they were a bit smaller than I’d imagined, but were the perfect size for a group planter on my windowsill. They arrived in the mail without getting crushed or damaged and were extremely well packaged. They even did well being shipped in the cold! (I was afraid they’d get frost damage from the freezing temperatures we’ve been having.) There were also a few little pups already on the plants that I could use to grow even more! This was definitely an added bonus!

Con’s to Buying Succulents Online

However, the one thing that I noticed was that the soil they arrived in needed to be switched out. So plan ahead and buy either 5 small 3″ pots, or one shallow 6″ pot to put them all into. Also have some cactus and succulent potting soil on hand to plant them in. And make sure that your soil is very well-draining. Cactus potting mix is the recommended soil type for all succulents. Water thoroughly when transplanted, but make sure that it drains well and that there is no excess water in the pot. These are also a super cute option of pots to go along with your brand new succulents! I personally ordered them and all of my succulents fit perfectly!

So all in all, I think my succulents from Amazon were great! It’s good to know that I shouldn’t be afraid to buy them online and neither should you. Plants ordered online were just as healthy and cute as any I would have picked up from the store! And for care information for these plants, check out my post on Succulent Plant Care! And remember, have fun with it!

Happy Digging!

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Why is my Plant Dying?

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We’ve all been there. We’ve all looked down at our sad little plant and asked ourselves this question… Why is my plant dying? Believe me. I’ve had my issues with dead plants too. But the key is to figure out what is wrong, change it, and nurse your little guy back to full health! So what are the main reasons our plants die? 

**Note: This post contains affiliate links, which if purchased, I will receive a portion of the profits at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with this awesome information!**

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#1 – Improper Watering

Let’s just get this one out of the way. Overwatering is the #1 reason for plants dying. People just have this feeling like if their favorite vine doesn’t look to great, well, maybe I should water it more. No. Stop. Don’t water it more.

Then there are those of us who just get so busy with life that we come home one day, look over, and the plant has collapsed. We look in the pot and see the Sahara desert staring back at us. Yep. Been there too. Oops. These are the times when you should water it more. Try setting an alarm on your phone, or marking it on your calendar. That way it will be easier for everyone.

If you think your problem is incorrect watering, then check out my post on How to Water your Houseplant. This will give you some great watering tips!

#2 – Light Issues

So for many of us living in apartments, one of our biggest problems is either not enough light, or too much light. My little succulents are just not thriving thanks to this problem of having too little light. (That, and it’s hard to keep them away from my one-year-old!). If you need more light, try a grow light. I know Amazon has several options available for those just needing a light or two.

Also, make sure that you aren’t giving a plant too much light. Most of our interior plants are tropical plants, taken from the wild understory of the jungle. Now, a lot of these plants are used to either low light or medium light. Only a very few need bright light. But regardless… most of these plants aren’t used to direct sunlight. That means my poor little dieffenbachia that I had back in college didn’t enjoy my enthusiastic placement of it in my windowsill. Basically, it got scorched. Leaf scorch to be technical. So know which of your plants want to be in that sunny windowsill and which ones would rather have a little protection… which leads me to my next problem…

#3 – Unknown Plants

Let’s face it. Not many people can tell me the common name as well as light- and water-requirements for their favorite houseplant. If you can, then you’re doing great! But for the rest of us, it helps to know exactly what type of plant you have. This will help you place it better in your house, as well as to know what it wants from you!

#4 – Drafts

Whether it’s a warm draft or a cold draft, most plants don’t like them. Right now in the winter, I need to take special precautions for any of my plants that are near the front door. They don’t appreciate the cold air gushing in every time I take the trash out. So, if it’s the change of a season (causing different temperatures in the house, as well as switching from heating to cooling or vice versa), then the decline of your plant is probably due to the changing temperatures caused by a draft.

#5 – Change in Location

If you recently changed a plant’s location, then it could easily be declining in health because it simply doesn’t like the new spot. This can be caused by one of the previous mentioned problems (like too much or too little light, or encountering drafts), but some plants can also just be picky and not like change. The biggest culprit of having tropophobia (the fear of moving… yes I had to look that one up), is the Weeping Fig. This ficus is the most stubborn plant as it likes to stay where it’s at. If you move it to a less-favorable spot, a common side-effect is that it will drop all of its leaves and die. Yep. Dramatic. I know. So be aware, and if you need to move your plant… give it some TLC the first couple of days.

So these are the most common reasons why indoor plants die. Some other problems such as insect or disease infestation, improper potting mix, or too little or too much humidity, can also cause problems in plants. However, these are usually less common indoors. Just make sure that you have a well-draining pot and that you know the requirements of your plants. For more information, check out my post, 10 Quick Tips to Keep your Houseplant Alive. Feel free to leave any comments or questions below!

Happy digging!

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10 More Hard to Kill Houseplants!

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For those of you who missed my original post, 10 Hard to Kill Houseplants , there was a lot of interest in these easy, low maintenance plants. So I decided, why not give everyone a few more to choose from?! Here’s a list of some of the less common indoor plants that are still easy, low maintenance, and hard to kill houseplants!

**Note: This post contains affiliate links, which if purchased, I will receive a portion of the profits at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with this awesome information!**

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#1: Chinese Evergreen – Aglaonema

Starting off with one of the more vibrant plants, this low maintenance thriller also does well in low light conditions. Keep away from direct sunlight and let it dry out a little (not too much) in between waterings. Also, keep away from drafts, as this can cause the leaves to brown. Other than that, this plant is easy to care for, very forgiving, and cut leaves will propagate easily in water, leaving you with plenty of plants for your indoor space!

#2: Peperomia – Peperomia

Also called the Radiator plant, Peperomia is definitely on the easy to grow list. These plants prefer medium to brighter sunlight, but can also do well in low light conditions. This will produce a leggier (less bushy) plant and may reduce the vibrant colors in some variegated varieties, but they will tolerate it. They also store water in their fleshy leaves, so make sure to let it dry out a little between watering, as this plant can also handle a bit of neglectful care.

#3: Ponytail Palm – Beaucarnea recurvata

Ponytail palm is one of my favorite indoor plants! I just love the little tuft of leaves sprouting out the top that gives this little guy a very unique and soft look. Another name for this plant is Elephant’s foot, due to the large bulge at the base of the trunk. These plants are actually part of the succulent family, so make sure that the soil remains dry between waterings. Too much water and there can be some serious root damage. Ponytail palms also like bright light, but can do well without it during the winter months as long as it gets plenty of sun in the summer. In warmer climates it can actually be moved outdoors during the warmer months.

#4: Wandering Jew – Tradescantia pallida

Wandering Jew, often confused with Purple Heart, has deep purple and silver leaves and is a somewhat less common indoor vine (as the more common Pothos vine has been bigger in popularity lately). Don’t rule this one out, however, as it still looks and does great in the indoors! To keep Wandering Jew happy, give it bright light in the mornings, but avoid intense afternoon sunlight. It can also do well in low light conditions, but will become more leggy (less leaves on longer vines). Let it dry out a little between watering and make sure the base of the plant doesn’t stay wet as it will rot if too moist. Also pinch back the vines several times a year in order to get a more bushy vine.

#5: Rubber Plant – Ficus elastica

This ficus is one of the easiest of its relatives to grow! Keep it in bright but indirect sunlight and let it dry out between watering. Rubber plants come in a variety of sizes and can be either a small counter-top plant, or as big as a large tree. Also check out the variegated rubber plant for something pleasantly different for your space!

#6: Ti Plant – Cordyline terminalis

Ti plant is another very colorful indoor plant with varieties in a mix of purples, pinks, creams, and greens. Very slow growing, this low maintenance plant does well in bright light and can handle getting a bit dry. Just watch for the leaves getting brown on the edges. This is a sign that it’s been too dry, so step up the watering just a notch. This plant also does well with humidity, so it is the perfect plant for a bright shower area!

#7: Jade Plant – Crassula ovata

Though a bit more water-loving than its succulent cousins, the jade plant is still an easy-to-care-for plant! Make sure that it gets a medium amount of sunlight and let the soil get slightly dry between watering and don’t let the leaves get wet. Jade plants will like a bit more water during the summer time and a little less during the winter. Keep the same water to sunlight hours ratio for a good estimate of watering needs. Also, if the leaves are starting to brown and fall off, it means that your little guy needs a bit more water. Just make sure that it never stays wet. Like all succulents, this will make your jade plant start to rot.

#8: Dumbcane – Dieffenbachia

Dumbcane is a common houseplant to find in local plant centers. Be warned, however, that ingestion of this plant can cause swelling of the throat and tongue, and if ingested in large amounts, can cause suffocation. So keep away from children and animals that would be curious to give this plant a taste. The leaves are a beautiful, spotted green and white, but will turn yellow if it is getting too much sun. Keep it in moderate to bright indirect light. Also, be careful to not overwater this little guy. Let it dry out just a touch between watering. Also, as the plant grows upward, the lower leaves will turn brown and drop. This is normal, just keep doing what you’re doing and trim off any unsightly lower leaves.

#9: Hoya Plant – Hoya

There are several different types of Hoya, differing in leaf shape and colors from green to cream and pink! All Hoyas enjoy medium to bright light, but don’t do well in direct sunlight. They also do well with a bit of neglect as they like to dry out a bit before watering. Just make sure that they don’t receive too much water! Keep in smaller pots, as these guys like to get a bit root bound and it can also stimulate flowering.

#10: Umbrella Tree – Schefflera 

Like several of the other plants in this list, Umbrella Tree, often called Schefflera, does best in bright, but indirect light. It also does not like to be overwatered. If your leaves are turning yellow and falling off, then it is either getting too much direct sunlight, or it is getting too much water. Make sure that all of these plants are in a well-draining pot that will allow your plant to dry out slightly between watering. For Schefflera plant care tips, check out this post by The Spruce, the Schefflera Plant Profile!

That’s it for my list of 10 More Hard to Kill Houseplants! Some of these can be found at local garden centers, but others may need to be specially ordered. And if you haven’t yet seen my original list of Top 10 Hard to Kill Houseplants, check it out here! Good luck, and feel free to comment below with any additional tips or questions!

Happy digging!

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12 Best Plants for the Shade

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One big problem that I see within landscapes is that dreaded shade circle. Usually people don’t plan for shady areas and end up planting the same grass, shrubs, or annuals in the shady and sunny regions of their yard. Most often, this leaves an area that is full and thriving in one area, then looks like it is dying five feet over. But here is a way to fix it! Remember to plant shade areas with shade-loving plants! What a concept! Don’t know what to plant? Here is a list of some of the more common plants for the shade…

*Note: If you really have no way around re-planting, but are left with dying plants, another alternative is if it is a tree or other plant that is causing the shade, try thinning out the shade. This is done via selective pruning. It is best to hire an arborist to prune large trees, but can also be done yourself if you have the proper experience and safety gear.*

**Note: This post contains affiliate links, which if purchased, I will receive a portion of the profits at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with this awesome information!**

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Plants for the Shade #1: False Goat’s Beard – Astilbe

Found in most nurseries as simply Astilbe, this perennial is good for zones 3-9. There are many different varieties available that range from 6 inches to 5 feet in height. They are also available in white, red, pink, purple, and blue varieties. Astilbe does well in partial shade to full shade (though it won’t flower quite as much in full shade). It needs protection from hot afternoon sun as this can cause the leaves to burn. Astilbe also does well in pots that are left in shady areas. Just remember to keep these plants a bit moist as they don’t like to dry out!

Find it here!

Plants for the Shade #2: Hostas – Hosta

Hostas are a very common shade plant. And it’s clear to see why! There are thousands of different varieties of this plant, each one showing off its different patterns and shades of green, yellow, and white leaves. Hostas will also flower, but they are normally planted for their foliage, not their flowers. These plants vary in how much sun they require (depending on the variety), but all hostas will either like partial shade or full shade. Deer do like to much on these plants, though, so make sure to plant deer-resistant plants surrounding your hostas if you are in an area that has a lot of deer.

Find it here!

Plants for the Shade #3: Coral Bells – Heuchera

This is another plant that has very attractive foliage! Coral bells is a hardy perennial (down to zone 3!) and leaves come in colors ranging from red, orange, and yellow to dark green, purple, and near black! These plants will flower late spring to early summer and spent booms can be removed to show off the colorful leaves. Coral bells also does well in pots and are best in part shade to full shade conditions. Make sure to keep them slightly moist (but not drowning!) and enjoy these colorful plants all year long!

Find it here!

Plants for the Shade #4: Sweet Woodruff – Galium odoratum

Sweet Woodruff was originally grown for its sweet, fresh fragrance as well as its medicinal and edible uses. Hardy from zones 4-9, this pretty perennial loves the shade and will bloom from late spring to mid- summer. Reaching a height of only 1 foot, this is a great groundcover for large areas. It is also deer resistant. Be careful, though, as Sweet Woodruff can become invasive. They spread through underground rhizomes, so make sure that the area has a border and that any plants outside of the area is removed every spring. (Photo by Jean Gaffard)

Find it here!

Plants for the Shade #5: Japanese Forest Grass – Hakonechloa macra

This is one of my favorite grasses! This perennial grass not only does well in partially shaded borders and planters, but also does well in partially shaded pots. It has green foliage (and a variety with cream colored leaf margins!) and it will turn red in the fall as it prepares to go dormant. Japanese Forest Grass will also bloom, but flowers are small and inconspicuous. This grass is also deer resistant and slow-growing, making it a great landscape plant! (Photo by Real Jardin Botanico de Madrid)

Find it here!

Plants for the Shade #6: Columbine – Aquilegia

Columbine plants are a great option for areas with partial shade. These plants can tolerate full sun in cooler climates, but need partial shade in warmer regions. This native plant has many different varieties to choose from. So many in fact, that you can find columbine in any color you want! Columbine do have short lives (around 3-4 years), but they will re-seed easily and the new seedlings will produce flowers starting in their second year. There are also drought-tolerant varieties available, making it great for anyone looking to cut back on their water bill!

Find it here!

Plants for the Shade #7: Ferns

Ferns are great for shady spaces! They not only do well in the shade garden, but also thrive in indoor and outdoor pots, making them great for any area that doesn’t receive much sunlight. There are many different types of ferns available, so choose one that is the right size and has the upright or hanging form that you like. Depending on your climate, some ferns may die back in the winter, whereas some ferns will actually be evergreen! And don’t worry too much about your gardening experience… ferns are some of the easiest plants to grow!

Check out this Japanese Painted Fern!

Plants for the Shade #8: Bleeding Heart – Lamprocapnos spectabilis

This shade-loving perennial is also one of the easiest perennials to grow! Foliage and flowers emerge in early spring and plants will thrive in cool, shady locations. After blooming and with the hot summer temperatures, Bleeding Heart will have an early fall and the leaves will turn yellow and die back. These can be trimmed back in preparation for the next spring’s pink and white show!

Find it here!

Plants for the Shade #9: Lenten Rose – Helleborus orientalis

Lenten Rose is one of the most popular shade plants. With flowers available in white, green, red, pink, purple, and even a near black, this plant has a lot of colors to choose from! Lenten Rose can grow in zones 3-9 but will be evergreen in any zone above 5. These late-winter to early-spring blooms are also deer and rabbit resistant, which makes them great for forested regions. They also love the shade and once established, can even tolerate dry conditions. Overall, they are an easy-to-care-for perennial that will make you want to keep planting more!

Find it here!

Plants for the Shade #10: Caladium – Caladium

Also known as Elephant ear, Caladium has very showy leaves that range in colors of greens, reds, whites, pinks, and purples. This plant prefers partial shade and is only a perennial down to zone 9. However, in colder climates, the tubers can be dug up in the fall to be stored in a cool, dry place until the following spring. Caladiums can also be grown in pots for easily placing indoors during the winter. Though Caladiums require a bit more care, their bright, colorful leaves are definitely worth the extra effort!

Find it here!

Plants for the Shade #11: Hydrangea – Hydrangea spp.

Hydrangeas are an ever-popular plant and it’s no question why! These guys do great in partial shade and there are even some varieties that are more tolerant to full shade. Their great, big bundles of blooms are either white, green, or the famous blue (in acidic soil) and pink (in alkaline soil). There are also hydrangeas that do well from zones 3-9, thus making it the perfect option for many people in various climates. Just make sure that they receive a bit of attention during the winter to ensure their safety!

Find it here!

Plants for the Shade #12: Mondo Grass – Ophiopogon japonicus

Mondo grass is also very popular in the landscape. With both green and black varieties, Mondo grass can be grown in borders, planters, pots, or even as a lawn! It can tolerate full sun, but will have a darker color in partial shade. This is perfect for areas that are a mix of sun and shade. This perennial grow only 6 to 10 inches tall, making it perfect for a low border, or to add an additional layer to planting beds! (Photo by brewbooks)

Find it here!

There’s my list of 12 plants for the shade! There are many more perennial plants that can tolerate the shade, but I tried to keep it to plants that are more common and readily available at any local nursery. And if you live in warmer zones, or are okay with an annual, check out my list of 14 Coleus Varieties for the Shade! Then feel free to comment about any of these plants, as well as any other plants that you have found to be successful in your own shade garden!

Happy digging!

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