Rooting hormone is a chemical substance applied to plant cuttings to stimulate faster and strong root development. The product also protects against fungal and bacterial infections that may affect the formation of new roots on the cuttings. While rooting hormones are perceived to increase the success rate of a propagation process, they are rarely essential,…
Root mealybugs are small, soft-bodied white or grey insects that feed on the sap of plant roots. They are serious pests that can weaken or kill the plant. Since they dwell in the soil, they are difficult to detect and control. However, signs of soil mealybugs include stunted plant growth, yellowing leaves, wilting, or a…
Fungus gnats are small insects that infest soil and other potting media. While adults don’t harm plants, their larvae can damage roots, stunt plant growth, or kill the plant. Fortunately, you can use neem oil to control the fungus gnats. But how do you use it? Neem oil contains azadirachtin as an active ingredient that…
Insecticidal soap and neem oil are popular organic insecticides used for treating different types of pests on plants, including aphids, whiteflies, spider mites, mealybugs, thrips, and scale insects. While both of these organic insecticides are considered safe on plants and animals, they have different properties and abilities. In summary, here’s what to know about neem…
The Fishbone cactus (Disocactus anguliger), also known as the Ric Rac orchid cactus, is a popular indoor plant native to the evergreen forests of Mexico. Its stems are arranged in a zigzag pattern, making it resemble the skeleton of a fish. Fishbone cacti can be grown indoors or outdoors, depending on the climate. They prefer…
Christmas cacti are favorite houseplants among indoor plant enthusiasts due to their vibrant blooms in the winter. The flowers come in various colors, from traditional pink and red to white, yellow, and orange. This makes it a great holiday plant for Christmas color and gifting. The Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii) is a tropical plant native…
As the holiday season approaches, many people decorate their homes with beautiful plants that remind them of the festive moments. Christmas cactus is one of the plants at the top of the list. These plants are known for their vibrant blooms, easy maintenance, and longer lifespan. The Christmas cactus ( Schlumbergera bridgesii), is native to…
Cacti plants are adapted to growing in arid and semi-arid areas where the soil is loosely textured and less nutritious. If you want these plants to thrive in your home or garden, then you have to grow them in soil that mimics these conditions. Regular potting soil is notably heavy and thus not suitable for…
The saguaro (Carnegiea gigantean) is the largest cactus species in the United States, native to the Sonoran Desert in Arizona. It is an iconic plant that was declared the official state cactus of Arizona. Although not an endangered species, saguaro fall under protected Arizona native plants. This means that harvesting, possessing, or transportation of saguaro…
Cactus species like the Peruvian apple grow taller and may easily fall over and get damaged when the top section becomes too heavy for the roots to support. Plants that don’t receive adequate light and those with shallow or damaged root systems are also prone to tipping over. My bunny ear cactus growing long and…