
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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Mulching Strawberries: Create The Ideal Growing Environment For Tasty Summer Berries
Mulching strawberries is crucial for their survival over winter and will help next year's crop be as healthy as possible. Explore best mulch for strawberries.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Hydrangea Landscape Uses – 5 Beautiful Ideas To Try In Your Yard This Year
Hydrangeas can add a vibrant element to your garden and there are numerous landscape uses for these blooming beauties. Gorgeous hydrangea ideas abound!
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Fashion Azaleas: Your Complete Care Guide For Growing This Beautiful Bloomer
‘Fashion’ is a cultivar of azalea, known for being evergreen and more winter hardy than others. Its pretty salmon flowers persist throughout the growing season.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Which Invasive Shrubs Should You Avoid Growing? Plus, Best Natives To Plant Instead
Certain plants may look lovely but they can wreak havoc to local areas and native wildlife. Here are the key invasive shrubs to avoid – with recommendations on gorgeous native alternatives to try
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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What Not To Plant With Tomatoes: 8 Bad Neighbors That Could Ruin Your Harvest
Not all companion plants are beneficial – some can sabotage your tomatoes. Find out which ones to keep at a safe distance in the garden.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Do Deer Eat Peonies? How To Keep Them Away And Save Your Gorgeous Blooms
Peonies are not usually favored by deer, but sometimes they go after the young shoots of the plants anyways. Learn how to keep deer away from beautiful blooms.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Native Hydrangea Varieties In North America – 8 Sensational Smooth And Oakleaf Varieties For Hardy Blooms And Multi-Season Beauty
Hydrangeas are beloved for their enduring visual dynamics – but if you go native, they’re even better. Here are the most captivating native hydrangea varieties you can grow
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Taking Care of Azaleas Indoors – Care Guide For Bountiful Blooms In Your Home
Azaleas are great landscape shrubs, but they can also charm indoors! Learn how to keep them happy and blooming even when potted inside your home.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Iris Companion Plants: What To Grow With Iris For Vibrant Floral Displays
Get the most out of your garden by choosing the right companion plants for irises. Accentuate and contrast iris blooms for the most attractive garden yet.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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7 New & Improved Cultivars Of Old-Fashioned Plants – These Aren’t Your Grandma’s Plants!
Old is new again! These old-fashioned plants have new cultivars that are sure to thrive in your garden and bring the charm factor. Neighbors will be envious!
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Never Plant Seedlings Until They Pass These 3 Simple Tests
Don't be over-eager to transplant seedlings into the garden before they are ready. These quick and easy checks will help ensure flourishing plants.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Creative Ideas For Plant Containers: 7 Ways To Save Money And Add Charm To A Garden
If you are looking for great ways to add personality to your container gardening – and even save yourself some money – then try these creative ideas for plant containers
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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8 Perfect Flowers To Plant With Tomatoes To Boost Yields & Banish Pests
Don’t forget flowers when choosing companion plants for your tomato beds or pots. These pretty, fragrant blooms add beauty but are also highly beneficial.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Can Snake Plants Live Outside? Everything You Need To Know For Snake Plants Al Fresco
Snake plants can live outside given the right conditions, but be careful that they don't take over! Learn the best way to use snake plants in your landscape.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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My Homemade Orchid Fertilizer Always Brings More Blooms – Here's The Easy Recipe That Transforms Plants
Scientist-turned-gardener Mary Ellen Ellis shares her tried-and-tested DIY orchid fertilizer recipe, plus more ingredients to try for healthy, happy plants.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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How To Grow Geraniums For Bright, Beautiful Blooms All Summer Long
Geraniums have been one of the most popular garden plants for decades. Discover how to keep yours happy and blooming all summer with our complete care guide.
By Nikki Tilley
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Growing Herbs In Containers: Ultimate Guide To Potted Herb Gardens For Year-Round Edibles
For anyone with a curiosity for kitchen gardens, growing herbs in containers is deeply rewarding and flavorsome, whether you’re a keen beginner or a seasoned amateur
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Best Care For Dogwood Trees For Charming Blooms And Bright Stems
Caring for dogwoods is easy and they require only a little maintenance to thrive. Learn how to care for this classic ornamental tree.
By Mary Ellen Ellis