
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 Long Do Mums Last? Plus, How To Make Chrysanthemum Flowers Last Longer
Chrysanthemums have the potential for enduring displays as we enter the quieter months of the year. But how long do mums last? Here’s how to maximize your fall blooms
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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7 Plants You Should Never Prune In Fall: Don't Trim These Perennials Until Spring
Discover popular shrubs and trees that must not be pruned until spring, to ensure healthy plants with maximum flowers, and support local wildlife.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Is Plastic Harming Wildlife In Your Yard? Identify Plastic Issues And Keep Garden Visitors Safe
If we’re wondering whether plastic is harming wildlife, it’s a good idea to take a look at your yard and garden and learn about some safer plastic alternatives.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Fall Container Veggies: 8 Best Fall Container Garden Vegetables To Grow
Growing vegetables in pots is an activity we focus on more in spring, but there is no reason to stop in autumn! Here are eight fall container garden vegetables you can try
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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6 Fall Lawn Care Tasks To Prioritize Before Winter – Plus When To Make The Last Cut
Use our guide to prepare your lawn for its winter slumber, and it will awaken in spring with lush, verdant grass you can be proud of.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Recharge Your Soil Over Winter By Cover Cropping: 6 Green Manures To Plant In Fall
Cover cropping is not just for farming. Use this tried-and-tested technique in your vegetable garden or flower beds to enjoy richer, looser soil and fewer weeds.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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What Is A Florist Hydrangea? – Plus, Why You Shouldn’t Plant Them In Your Garden
They may look gorgeous, but is it worth your while trying to grow a florist hydrangea? While lovely in short-term displays, here’s why you should think carefully before you take one on
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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8 Plants You Should Prune In October – Don't Miss The Fall Trimming Window
Prune these plants before the frost hits to avoid pests and diseases, and to ensure healthy growth and abundant blooms next year.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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October To-Do List: Essential Gardening Jobs To Do This Month
Your October gardening to-do list is here! These are the top tasks to complete this month in every region across the US.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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5 Plastic Products To Avoid In Your Garden – And How You Can Embrace Plastic Reduction
The less plastic we use, the healthier our planet will be. Here are some big plastic gardening products to avoid, plus some alternatives.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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8 Small Trees For Front Yards – Boost Curb Appeal Without Dominating The House
Discover the best small trees for front yards, which make an impact in multiple seasons without overshadowing the rest of the yard.
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. This hardy perennial will support monarchs and other beneficial insects.
By Mary Ellen Ellis