
Nikki Tilley
Nikki Tilley is named after a shoe… but that’s another story. She’s often called the crazy plant lady because she enjoys talking to all her plants and garden critters (bugs too). After working and raising a blended family of five kids, she’s now happily semi-retired and blessed with nearly ten grandchildren that call her Nana Kiki. With more time for gardening and writing, she’s excited to see where the next chapter takes her.
As a bona fide plant hoarder and garden addict, Nikki has over a hundred houseplants and there’s no telling how many more are out in the garden – currently residing within eleven different beds. Her backyard garden is a certified wildlife habitat, so there’s plenty of critters hanging around too.
While much of Nikki’s life revolves around gardening and writing, she has plenty of other interests. One of these is history, and she once dreamed of being an archeologist. She loves being creative through drawing, crafting or upcycling.
Her motto is “dare to be different” and, as such, anything weird or unusual fascinates her. This can often be seen in many of her artistic creations, including the garden.
Latest articles by Nikki Tilley
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How To Pollinate Tomatoes: Give Plants A Hand For Bigger Harvests
With the right techniques, hand-pollinating tomatoes can make all the difference between a lackluster season and a productive one. Learn how to get it right.
By Bonnie L. Grant
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Grow The Sweetest Strawberry Fruits: Try These 6 Top Tips For Luscious Berry Goodness!
Why are some strawberry fruit sweet and what makes strawberries taste sour? Most causes of sour strawberries can be attributed to less than ideal growing conditions. Learn more about that here.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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How To Grow Lily Of The Valley For Sweet-Smelling Spring Blooms That Thrive In Shade
Lily of the valley is one those plants gardeners either love or hate. Find out why and how to care for these classic spring flowers in your garden.
By Nikki Tilley
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How To Grow Lilacs: Fill Your Garden With Romantic Blooms & Sweet Perfume This Spring
A classic garden favorite, the lilac is beloved for its intense fragrance and beautiful blooms. Learn the basics of lilac care for lovely, long-lasting shrubs.
By Bonnie L. Grant
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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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How To Thin Seedlings The Right Way For Stronger, Healthier Plants
It may seem brutal, but thinning seedlings is essential for the health and production of flowers and vegetables. Learn how and when to do it with our guide.
By Teo Spengler
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How To Grow A Pineapple Top From Store-Bought Fruit – For A Tasty Tropical Houseplant
Did you know you can grow a pineapple plant in your very own home—no tropical travel required? Here's how to grow a pineapple top from a store-bought fruit.
By Teo Spengler
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Growing Morning Glories: Grow And Care For Morning Glory Flowers
Growing morning glories couldn’t be easier. In bloom they’re lovely, but be sure to learn about their spreading habits before you choose their new home.
By Nikki Tilley
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Christmas Cactus Care Guide: Grow A Thriving Schlumbergera With Abundant Blooms
A flowering Christmas cactus is a sight to behold over the holiday season. Learn the plant's care requirements and it will reward you with a glorious display.
By Melanie Griffiths
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How To Compost At Home: The Ultimate Step-By-Step Guide
Composting is an affordable, sustainable solution for creating the best possible soil improver. Discover your ideal method, steps for success, and how to get the most out of your homemade black gold.
By Melanie Griffiths
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How To Ripen Green Tomatoes After Picking – And Store Them Properly
Wondering how to make tomatoes turn red can be frustrating for a gardener. Harvesting green tomatoes and storing them indoors will help conserve the plant's energy well into fall. Learn more in this article.
By Amy Grant
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How To Plant A Peach Seed To Grow Your Very Own Tree From Seed
While they may not look or taste just like the originals, it is possible to grow peaches from seed pits. If you're interested in growing peaches from seed, then the following article will help with that.
By Bonnie L. Grant
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6 Remedies To Save Heat-Stressed Plants – Your Essential Summer Survival Guide
Ensure your plants remain vibrant and healthy throughout the hottest months of the year. These tips will help you to create a resilient garden that thrives in the face of rising temperatures.
By Melanie Griffiths
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Neomarica Iris: How To Care For Walking Iris
Plant some walking iris in the garden where you want lush greenery and pretty blooms. Unique in their looks and propagation habits, these are fascinating additions indoors or out
By Nikki Tilley
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Hibiscus Leaves Turning Yellow: Common Causes & Fixes
If you’re concerned about your hibiscus leaves turning yellow, there are some easy ways to diagnose what’s going wrong, and simple methods to fix it.
By Nikki Tilley
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Tips For Pruning Hibiscus Plants & When To Prune Hibiscus
Keep this tropical beauty healthy by pruning hibiscus the right way. Learn how and when to prune hibiscus plants to keep them vibrant.
By Nikki Tilley
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How & When To Prune Hydrangeas: Everything You Need To Know For Spectacular Blooms
Since there are various types of hydrangea bushes, pruning instructions may vary slightly. Pruning hydrangea bushes is not necessary unless the shrubs have become overgrown or unsightly. Click here for more.
By Nikki Tilley
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Orchid Care: How To Grow Happy, Healthy Plants Indoors
Growing orchids as houseplants is such a rewarding hobby. Learn their unique care needs to keep plants thriving and bursting with flowers.
By Melanie Griffiths