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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How To Grow Cilantro Indoors: Complete Care & Growing Guide
Learning how to grow cilantro indoors will keep this delightfully tasty herb at your fingertips in the kitchen.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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How To Grow Basil Indoors – For Fresh Year-Round Flavor
While basil is a commonly grown herb outdoors, this easy-care plant can also be grown indoors. Read the article that follows to get tips and information on how to grow basil indoors.
By Nikki Tilley
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Elephant Ear Plants: Complete Care And Growing Guide
The large floppy leaves of elephant ear plants are a great tropical touch in a garden where the soil is rich and water is plentiful.
By Nikki Tilley
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Growing Hostas: How To Care For A Hosta Plant
A hosta plant may be the prettiest shade plant in your yard. It thrives underneath trees and even in deep-shade areas.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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African Violets: Complete Care And Growing Guide
For people who love these sweet plants, African violet care is easy and fun. Knowing what they need is the key.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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What Is Garden Soil – When To Use Garden Soil
Garden soil vs. potting soil is often fodder for debate. It's good to know the differences between the two.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Feeding Wildlife In Winter: Grow Plants To Feed Animals
If you want to bring more wildlife to your backyard, make sure your plants can feed them in colder months. These plants are perfect for feeding wildlife in winter
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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African Mask Plant Care Guide
The exotic African mask plant, also called Alocasia amazonica, loves a moist tropical environment whether it’s outside or in a pot indoors.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Understanding Keystone Planting: Give Your Ecoregion A Boost
A closer understanding of keystone planting can help your environment as well as your garden. Experts reveal why these critical species matter
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Aglaonema Growing Guide: All About Chinese Evergreen Plants
Aglaonema plant care is not too demanding. Chinese evergreen is a stunning houseplant that enjoys low-light conditions.
By Nikki Tilley
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Open Vs. Closed Terrariums: Everything You Need To Know
Deciding between open vs closed terrariums depends on your love of the hobby and the plants you want to grow.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Inch Plant Care Guide: How To Grow Tradescantia Zebrina
Inch plants are beloved houseplants known for their fast growth and easy propagation. Read on to learn more about inch plant care.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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What Are Grecian Windflowers – How To Grow Anemone Windflowers
By growing Grecian windflowers, you can add a pretty new perennial to your garden. This spring bulb comes in range of colors, providing low clumps of blooms that easily fit into a variety of garden types and climates. Learn more in this article.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Festive Holiday Plants & Traditions From Around The World
Holiday plants differ among countries, cultures, and traditions during this special season of festivities and giving.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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10 Sustainable Traditions For A Greener Holiday
It’s a good time to consider having a more sustainable holiday, going green for ourselves and for the planet.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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8 Ideas For Decorating With Poinsettias This Holiday Season
When you’re decorating with poinsettias, consider experimenting with different varieties and fun holiday ideas.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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How To Overwinter Ollas For Years Of Use: Get More From Irrigation Pots
If you overwinter ollas properly, you'll keep these unique watering pots from cracking. Here's how to protect them in erratic winter temperatures so they last longer.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Grow Verbena Bonariensis: Expert Guide To Purpletop Vervain (Tall Verbena)
Find out how to cultivate dreamy Verbena bonariensis for free-flowing drifts of purple blooms, ideal for borders and prairie-style plantings.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Growing Crotons: Best Care For Croton Plants
Growing crotons is easier than you might think, as our experts reveal the secrets to successfully caring for this popular tropical plant.
By Heather Rhoades
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How To Grow And Care For Persian Lily
Plant Fritillaria prersica bulbs in garden beds, rock gardens or borders adds a unique look and striking colors.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Weeding Robots: Could AI Replace Herbicide?
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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How To Grow Papaya In Pots: Indoor Growing Guide
If you can't grow papayas outdoors where you live, try growing one inside. It can be done!
By Mary Ellen Ellis