String of bananas (Senecio radicans) is a trailing plant with leaves looking like bananas. It’s actually one of the fastest-growing succulents that is also easy to care for. If you have unsuccessfully tried to care for a string of pearls, this one will not disappoint. Native to Cape province of South Africa, the string of…
Aphids are common pests in our gardens and they can quickly multiply and cause damage to plants as they feed on sap. While there are many chemical pesticides for controlling aphids, they end up killing beneficial insects and causing other harm to the environment. Fortunately, there are as well many homemade aphid spray solutions that…
Succulents need light to thrive but it might not be enough for plants grown indoors or areas that receive minimal natural light. While some succulents can tolerate low-light conditions, most varieties may grow thin and pale as they stretch toward the source of light. To grow sun-loving succulents indoors, you need to place them directly…
Aloe vera is a succulent plant that grows in hot dry climates. Historically, this plant has been used for treating skin ailments and this has made it to be cultivated widely around the world. The thick fleshy leaves arranged in a rosette also make aloe a beautiful ornamental plant. Growing and maintaining aloe vera plants…
Terracotta pots are made from clay which is naturally porous. As such, they allow air and moisture to pass through their walls. This is very beneficial to plants that don’t like excess moisture around their roots such as cacti and succulents. However, these pots are prone to mold. The formation of a white fuzzy mold…
Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum) commonly known as houseleek, are incredibly charming plants that are hardy and easy to grow. Their rosette-shaped foliage and low maintenance make them a favorite among gardeners and succulent enthusiasts. Over time, hens and chicks produce offsets or “chicks” around the main plant. You can divide and transplant these offsets to…
The Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera bridgessii), is a popular holiday plant that produces beautiful blooms during the winter. Christmas cactus leaves curling can be a cause for concern. In this guide, I’ll explain the reasons behind this problem and what you can do to save the plant. Healthy Christmas cactus leaves are rich vibrant and deep…
Cacti are commonly defined by clusters of spines on their stems. While this gives them a unique appearance, it raises questions regarding their potential toxicity. In this guide, I’ll explain whether cactus spines are poisonous or not and what to do if they prick your skin. Spines are actually modified leaves or specialized structures that…
Aloe vera is one of the most widespread plants in the world. This succulent is commonly grown not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its potential medicinal and cosmetic uses. Additionally, aloe is easy to care for and this makes it a suitable choice for a houseplant. However, when it comes to our…
Aphids are among insect pests that feed on plant sap. Their feeding behavior can distort plant tissues leading to curling and yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and the spread of plant diseases. Aphids reproduce rapidly, so controlling them can be a challenge. Some types of aphids such as wooly aphids secrete and cover themselves in a…