
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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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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8 Plants That Like Wet Soil And Full Sun – Stunning Picks For Damp, Sun-Soaked Areas
Finding plants that like wet soil and full sun can be a challenge, but there are plenty of varieties thrive in these tough conditions. Here are our favorites.
By Amy Grant
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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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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
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4 Superfast Composting Methods: Turn Waste Into Garden Gold In 30 Days Or Less
Try the fastest composting methods to turbocharge your pile and transform kitchen scraps and garden waste into finished compost in just a few weeks.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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8 Self-Sowing Flowers That Will Grace Your Garden With Colorful Blooms Year After Year
Let nature take over and plant self-sowing flowers that will provide beautiful blooms for years to come – the perfect plants for a cottage garden design.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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What Is The Size Of An Azalea? Explore Different Varieties That Will Suit Every Garden
The size of azaleas can vary widely because they have been selectively bred for different landscape needs. Check out our picks for each size category.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Ultimate Guide To Fertilizing Hydrangeas – For Incredible Blooms Every Year
Fertilizing hydrangeas doesn't have to be hard. Our garden experts demystify the topic and teach you everything you need to know about feeding your fave shrubs.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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New Ways To Use Classic Garden Plants – For A Modern Landscape With A Touch Of Nostalgia
The 'Nostalgia Gardening' trend uses classic garden plants in new ways to add interest to your landscape and harken back to gardens of the past. Old is new again!
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Essential Pansy Guide: How To Best Care For Pansies For Bounteous Blooms
Pansies are cheerful flowers and often the first pops of color in the spring. Explore how to care for pansies for the best blooms yet.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Looking For Host Plants To Attract Butterflies? Try These 6 Plants For Butterfly Eggs
While it’s important to create a rich source of nectar for pollinators, it’s also critical to provide safe places to breed and grow. Try these plants for butterfly eggs to bring more pollinators to your yard
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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7 Vegetables To Plant In April: Start Indoors Or Outside For A Bumper Summer Harvest
Achieve your growing ambitions with these best vegetables to plant in April – including cold-hardy crops to sow direct and tender varieties to start indoors
By Mary Ellen Ellis