What’s the problem?My peace lily’s roots are escaping. DiagnosisWhen roots start growing through the drainage holes, it’s a sign the plant may be root-bound, meaning it has outgrown its pot. While some plants, such as succulents, can tolerate being root-bound, others – such as monsteras and peace lilies – can suffer from stunted growth, drooping … Read more
Recently, my garden fantasies have extended to a table. Specifically, one of those substantial, move-it-if-you-dare stone tables, weathered beautifully with some mottling and moss, standing on gravel beneath the dappled shade of a tree. I long for this table because, in the similarly fantastical small urban garden in my head, it is the answer to … Read more
Nestled among tulip fields not far from Amsterdam, the world-famous Keukenhof garden has opened for the spring, welcoming camera-wielding visitors to its increasingly selfie-friendly grounds. On a sunny day, the paths, park benches and cafes are crowded with tourists taking photos and selfies with one of the Netherlands’ most iconic products – the tulip. Those … Read more
There is a good reason that we treat certain houseplants as the green wallpaper of our homes: the odd splash of water and they seem to rub along fine. These are the species that have proved, over many decades, that they are best adapted to surviving in a vast range of situations. Unfortunately, familiarity breeds … Read more
Is there a perfect formula for a hard-wearing flower lawn that is good for pollinators, dogs and people? The immaculately mowed green has fallen out of favour in recent years owing to its lack of support for biodiversity. But there have also been complaints about the tall wildflower meadows that grow during “no mow May” … Read more
At the Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton on Friday, flowers were in the air, on display and worn by thousands of people for the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show. “We’re celebrating gardens and flowers here,” says the show’s director, Trent Cornish, who created Floral Fridays. “Wearing florals makes you just feel fun and free. … Read more
Tucked into the rolling hills between Bertinoro and Cesena, Marcantonio Raimondi Malerba’s home is not just a place to live, it is a testament to the seamless fusion of art, nature and design. For the celebrated sculptor, artist and designer, whose whimsical creations have captivated the design world, this sanctuary is both a refuge and … Read more
What’s the problem?My indoor lemon tree has sticky leaves and white spots underneath. What is it? DiagnosisThe sticky residue and white growths suggest an infestation of mealybugs. Mealybugs are notorious for attacking the fleshy leaves of cacti and succulents, but they also thrive on citrus trees, feeding on sap and weakening the plant. Their waxy … Read more
Are there still options to lower my 2024 taxable income? If you qualify, you can make tax-deductible contributions to an individual retirement account or a health savings account by the April 15 tax deadline and have them apply to tax year 2024, said Eva Simpson, vice president of member value, tax and advisory services with … Read more
Nettles are rarely considered a welcome sight to gardeners. With their capacity for rampant growth – they spread by rhizome (underground) as well as seed – and the tiny hairs on their stems and leaves that sting any passing bare skin, they are usually uprooted from outside spaces where people are present. Nonetheless, this defensive … Read more