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How-to guide on growing plants from seeds this spring

A step-by-step guide to growing your garden from seed, which opens the door to plant varieties not available at a garden center.

Can you dig it? Maybe. But Chicago gardeners risk soil damage if they till too early in the season

Gardeners who dig in the soil too early in the spring risk hard-to-correct problem that makes it difficult for trees and other plants to thrive.

Trees losing vigor? They might be planted too deep

Trees planted too deep can cause girdling roots, a condition that can cause its decline and even death. Here's how to fix the problem.

How to protect plants that sprout on a warm Chicago day in March

March is too early for plants in Chicago gardens, with highly volatile spring weather ahead. Freezing temperatures can damage some plants.

How to extend the life of an indoor Norfolk Island pine and other tropical houseplants with air layering

The Norfolk Island Pine eventually outgrows its interior space and that's when you need to carefully consider how to give it new life.

Bud breaks will soon hit as plants emerge from winter dormancy to welcome spring

The moment the bud scales first spread apart is called bud break. The unfurling leaves make springtime visible to us in a dramatic way.

Used coffee grounds in the compost can wake up that garden

Add used coffee grounds, kitchen scraps, and plant debris to the compost pile. Once the materials break down, they can enrich garden soil.

Want a houseplant with real legs? Consider the spider.

Spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum) are very adaptable to household growing conditions and easy to achieve success with

Planning a home project? Take care of those trees first.

If you’re planning to put in a new patio, walk or driveway, or even add a room to the house, make sure to include trees in your plans.

The measure of a garden? Design, plants that fit the space

When you’re planning a garden — whether it’s vegetables or an entire redo of your home landscape — the first step is to take measurements.

February 27, 2022

Plotting color combinations in the garden depends on the mood you’re going for

Annuals can add a splash of color to the garden, but deciding pairings can be tough. Let a color wheel be your guide.

February 26, 2022

Before spring blooms, inspect trees for damage

Winter is the best time to examine your trees’ bark and branches and spot signs of damage.

February 20, 2022

Yearning for spring? Forcing blossoms while it’s cold may the answer

While it's still cold, some spring-flowering trees and shrubs are ripe for forcing blossoms indoors.

February 19, 2022

When planning a garden, think of the view beyond

Planning a garden requires taking the longer view: If your neighbor has a lovely garden, make sure you can see it through plantings.

February 12, 2022

Why snow can be good for your lawn and garden

Rather than worry about heavy snow cover, think of it as insulation for your lawn and garden.

February 06, 2022

4 ways to prune a shrub, depending on if it needs trimmed or major surgery

There are different ways to prune a shrub, depending on whether you need to shear it into a shapely form or do major rejuvenation work. Here are tips to help.

February 06, 2022

How to start composting: Picking a composter, what not to include and more tips

Composting at home is easy to do by simply finding a discreet spot to pile up landscape waste or purchasing a free-standing plastic composter.

February 05, 2022

Best tools for winter pruning in your garden

Selecting the best pruning shears and other pruning tools like a folding saw help keep your plants and garden healthy when pruning in the winter.

January 30, 2022

An expert’s guide to caring for houseplants in winter

Houseplant care tips for winter, with advice on watering, fertilizing, pruning and how to increase humidity during cold Midwestern weather.

January 29, 2022

How to prune dormant shrubs and trees in winter

It's a good idea to prune your trees and shrubs in winter, when the dormant plants won't start new growth. Here are tips on how best to prune.

January 23, 2022

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