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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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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Watering Houseplants Lightly: What That Means & How It Can Help Houseplants Thrive
Watering houseplants lightly is the key to a longer life – but exactly how much is too much? We reveal how often to water indoor plants.
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
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6 Plants That Look Like Animals
There really are plants that look like animals and other things. There are genetic reasons for it, but who cares? They’re fun to grow!
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Intergenerational Gardening: Good For Gardeners Of All Ages
Intergenerational gardening is a great idea for people of all ages. Reach across the generational divide and grow something together.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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How To Grow An Outdoor Green Wall
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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What To Do (And Not Do) With Your Garden In The Fall
When deciding what to do in your garden this fall, remember there are just as many things NOT to do. Here are all the tasks to put on your list.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Overwintering Tropical Plants Indoors
There are a few ways to keep tropical plants alive in winter. Some like winter dormancy and may prefer to move indoors.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Hydrozones: Grouping Plants With Similar Water Needs
Hydrozones are designated areas where plantings require similar amounts of water or grouping plants with similar water needs.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Best Landscape Plants For The Upper Midwest Region
Trees, shrubs and flowers are abundant in Michigan, Minnesota,Wisconsin and Iowa. Don’t forget to plant natives!
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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How To Make A Natural Area In Your Garden
Natural gardens with native plants are becoming the conscientious gardener’s choice for a more sustainable yard.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Ivy Houseplants - Information On Caring For Ivy Plants
Growing English ivy indoors is a great way to enjoy this attractive vine without setting it loose in the garden.
By Heather Rhoades
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Poinsettia Care - How Do You Take Care Of Poinsettias
By Nikki Tilley
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How To Grow Plumeria
You can grow fragrant plumeria plants at home under the right conditions, but they dislike cold temperatures.
By Nikki Tilley
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What Is An Ecosystem? How Your Garden Is An Ecosystem
Your garden has its own ecosystem and it includes you! Harmonious relationships exist even at microscopic levels.
By Mary Ellen Ellis