Branches of botany

  • How-To

    The Science Behind Plant Division

    Divide to multiply. Even the language of this common garden practice hints at its paradoxical power. Division is a simple method of vegetative propagation that involves separating a perennial plant…

  • colorful drawing of a plant and root
    How-To

    Caring for Plant Roots: What You Need to Know

    Roots are often overlooked by gardeners but deserve to get more attention. Of course, they are usually underground and out of sight, so it’s somewhat understandable why they are largely…

  • Article

    Regional Picks: Big Blooms That Don’t Flop – Southern Plains

    1. Chinese Fringe Tree Name: Chionanthus retusus USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 9 Size: 15 to 20 feet tall and 20 to 25 feet wide Conditions: Full sun to partial…

  • Design

    There’s More Than One Way to Be Bold in the Garden

    Any garden can be bold, like that of Marilyn Wallace. The spaces she creates, indoors and out, emphasize strong elements balanced by more delicate or intricate ones (or just empty…

  • Article

    Concentrate on Contrast

    Imagine driving through miles of farmland or desert, where hour after boring hour the landscape never changes. If you’re like most of us, you’d tune out pretty quickly. That’s because…

  • Article

    Regional Picks: Summer Standouts – Midwest

    1. ‘Gateway’ Joe Pye Weed   Name: Eupatorium maculatum ‘Gateway’ USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 11 Size: 5 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide Conditions: Full sun to…

  • Article

    Oh, No! Now What?

    There is nothing less noticeable than an excellent pruning job. But on the flip side, there is nothing more noticeable than a poorly pruned plant. Pruning is a science and…