
Mary Ellen Ellis
Mary Ellen Ellis is an amateur gardener and freelance writer who lives in the Detroit area. She has degrees in Chemistry and Biochemistry and is a former high school science teacher. She has been gardening for more than 20 years and writing professionally for 15. Mary Ellen is the proud owner of only a few houseplants because she has cats who cannot stop chewing on them. Because of this she has developed a hobby growing terrarium plants that cats can’t reach.
Latest articles by Mary Ellen Ellis
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6 Underrated Shrubs That Deserve a Spot in Your Garden
Stop overlooking these stunning, but underrated shrubs! It's time to plant one (or more) of these beautiful bushes for a unique addition to your garden.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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African Violet Care Made Easy: Your Complete Guide for Sweet Year-Round Blooms
African violets are beautiful plants that can bloom year-round and live for decades with proper care and attention. Get healthy plants with vibrant blooms.
By Kathleen Walters
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Should You Use Coffee Grounds Instead of De-Icing Salt? Here's When it Works
Is there any truth to the internet hack of using coffee grounds on icy walkways? Our scientist-turned-garden expert explains.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Move Over, Roses! These 7 Underrated Plants Are Just as Romantic for Valentine’s Day
The special person in your life deserves a plant that's just as unique as they are. Give them one of these unexpected plants instead of the same old red roses.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Decoding Michigan Growing Zones: What Michiganders Need to Know for a Stunning Four-Season Garden
Michiganders, listen up! Here's everything you need to know about Michigan growing zones for a gorgeous, thriving garden.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Don't Clear Garden Leaves Yet! Wait for this Exact Moment to Get Maximum Benefits for Plants and Wildlife
Resist the urge to rake too soon ahead of spring. Discover why holding onto those fallen leaves for a few more weeks is the secret to a high-bloom, low-pest garden – and make sure you know the magic number that tells you it's safe to start
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Fertilize Grass With Coffee Grounds? Lawn Care Secret That Actually Works – Here's How to Do It
Coffee grounds can give your lawn a fantastic boost. Learn how and when to apply your spent grounds and why this trick works.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Ultimate Snake Plant Care Guide: Discover the Key to Stunning Snake Plants That Thrive Year-Round
Snake plants are some of the easiest houseplants to grow, but they still require the proper care to thrive. Discover exactly what they need.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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February Is the Key Pruning Window for These 10 Plants – Make the Cut Now Before Dormancy Breaks
February is the prime time to do some necessary pruning. Find out which plants will benefit most from a late winter trim this month.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Gardeners Are Using This DIY Terracotta Pot Hack to Heat Their Greenhouses – But Does It Actually Work?
The viral clay pot heater hack is taking the internet and greenhouses by storm, but does this DIY trick really work? A scientist turned gardener weighs in.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Ultimate Guide to Companion Planting in the Vegetable Garden: Everything You Need to Know
Companion planting is a fun and easy way to reap extra benefits in your garden. Learn everything you need to know to get started and the best pairings to try.
By Nikki Tilley
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How to Get Rid of Mealybugs Indoors – 5 Easy Organic Controls to Zap Houseplant Infestations
They may look like bits of fluff, but mealybugs are a major problem for indoor plants. If you see them, use these 5 expert-backed organic methods to curb infestations and keep plants thriving
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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4 Unique Houseplant Pairings That Just Work – Grow These Gorgeous Varieties Together for Happier Plants
Growing the right houseplants together can help them thrive and can create an even more beautiful display! Here are four of the best pairings to try.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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How to Prune Hibiscus for an Explosion of Exotic Blooms All Summer Long
Keep this tropical beauty healthy by pruning hibiscus the right way. Learn how and when to prune hibiscus plants to keep them vibrant.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Can You Really Eat Aloe Vera? These 4 Tasty Recipes Say Yes!
It's not just for sunburns! Learn how to safely identify, prepare, and enjoy aloe vera with these 4 tasty recipes.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Studies Say Ugly Vegetables Are Actually Better for You – Here's Why
Those stunted, scarred and weirdly shaped vegetables may actually make you healthier, according to science.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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You're Probably Watering Your Tulips Too Much – Here's How Often to Give Them a Drink for Beautiful Blooms Every Spring
Tulips are easy to grow, but improper watering can jeopardize bulbs. Find out how often to water tulips for gorgeous blooms that return year after year.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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What Is a Soilless Potting Mix? Dig In to This Unique Growing Medium and Learn How To Make Your Own
Soilless potting mix sounds confusing, but it is a great option to keep your plants healthy. Learn how to make your own and watch your plants thrive.
By Mary Ellen Ellis

