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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Caring For A Majesty Palm: Expert Guide To Ravenea Rivularis
If you live in a warm climate, caring for a majesty palm outdoors is easy. If your region is cooler, this palm makes a gorgeous houseplant.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Largest Hosta Plants You Can Grow: 6 Plantain Lily Whoppers
Go big or go home. Plant these giant hosta varieties to have the biggest garden on the block.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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7 Spring Bulbs To Plant In October – For A Dazzling Display Of Color
Planting spring bulbs in October is a great way to prepare for the next growing season. These stunning varieties will make your garden radiant with color.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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8 Vegetables You Can Propagate From Cuttings – To Grow Free Plants Next Year
Though traditionally started from seeds in spring, several vegetables can be regrown from cuttings. Learn how to propagate the strongest performers from your current crop for an endless supply of plants.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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8 Fall-Blooming Flowers For Front Yards – Maximum Curb Appeal Guaranteed
Create a vibrant, inviting front yard that glows with fall color and lasts well into the cooler months.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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When And How To Harvest Broccoli Heads And Stems For The Best Crops
Learn how to harvest broccoli from your vegetable garden at the perfect time. Get the most out of your harvest by following these easy tips.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Growing Milkweed: How To Cultivate Healthy Asclepias For Monarchs And Other Pollinators
Learn how to grow milkweed to amplify your pollinator garden!
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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The Best Types Of Philodendron: 8 Vining And Non-Climbing Houseplants
These 8 no-fuss philodendron varieties are perfect for starting your houseplant collection, or for adding the next perfect one to your windowsill.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Easy Garden Winners: 8 Of The Best Low-Maintenance Plants For Your Garden
The easiest plants to grow are often some of the most stunning in color, texture and fragrance. Here are some of the best low-maintenance plants for beds and borders
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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8 Flower Seeds To Harvest In September – To Grow An Endless Supply Of Blooms
Collect these popular flower seeds and fill your garden beds and pots with glorious new blooms, without spending a penny.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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DIY Potting Mix Masterclass: Make Your Own Peat-Free Blends For Plants
Looking to make more of natural potting mix ingredients and boost your peat-free options? Our DIY potting mix masterclass can help you create potting mediums for different plants
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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How Much Humidity Do Orchids Need To Thrive? – Plus Tips To Boost Moisture Levels
Learn how much humidity your orchids need and easy techniques to increase moisture levels for happy and healthy plants with more vibrant blooms.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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8 Stunning Shrubs For Front Yards To Add Instant Curb Appeal
Discover the perfect front yard shrubs that will frame your home and create an inviting, lush entrance.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Why Butterflies Matter For Our Gardens, Well-being, And Biodiversity
Beautiful butterflies are good for our gardens!
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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7 Cactus Dahlia Varieties And Semi-Cactus Dahlia Types To Try
While some dahlias have soft petals or pompon heads, others have dramatic spikes! We round up seven outstanding cactus dahlia varieties and semi-cactus types to grow
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Should You Water Orchids With Ice Cubes? Discover The Pros And Cons Of This Controversial Method
Curious about watering orchids with ice cubes? Learn the benefits and drawbacks of this popular method to keep your plants healthy and thriving.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Need Floral Inspiration For Your Raised Bed? Try These Raised Flower Bed Ideas
Were you thinking raised beds were purely the domain of exciting edible gardening? Prepare to be dazzled, as we reveal the best raised flower bed ideas to try
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Can You Grow Apples From Pips? How To Plant Apple Seeds That Can Flourish
Knowing how to plant apple seeds can be a fun project that has the potential to lead to exciting future fruits. Find out a free way to grow your own homegrown apple trees
By Mary Ellen Ellis