
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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Worm Castings Are the Secret to Healthier Soil and Stronger Plants – Here's How to Make Them at Home
Worm castings are basically just worm poop. But this unlikely material is like magic for your plants. Find out why and how to use them in your garden.
By Bonnie L. Grant
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How to Grow Rosemary for a Flavorful and Ornamental Addition to Your Garden
Growing rosemary plants can bring fresh, aromatic flavor to your favorite dish or visual appeal as a gorgeous groundcover in a Mediterranean-inspired garden.
By Bonnie L. Grant
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Scale Insect Identification and Control: Don't Let Your Precious Plants Get Destroyed By Creepy Crawlers
Scale insects are a threat for many plants in the home and garden, sucking sap and robbing them of essential nutrients. Identify and treat scale on plants.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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How to Propagate Monstera for More of These Classically Cool Houseplants
Grow more of your favorite houseplants for free with this simple step-by-step guide all about how to propagate monstera.
By Amy Grant
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Ultimate Guide to Companion Planting in the Vegetable Garden: Everything You Need to Know
Companion planting is a fun and easy way to reap extra benefits in your garden. Learn everything you need to know to get started and the best pairings to try.
By Nikki Tilley
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How to Prune Hibiscus for an Explosion of Exotic Blooms All Summer Long
Keep this tropical beauty healthy by pruning hibiscus the right way. Learn how and when to prune hibiscus plants to keep them vibrant.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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The Complete Poinsettia Care Guide: Planting, Pruning & Keeping It Alive
Did you get a poinsettia for the holidays? Wondering how to take care of it? Our comprehensive guide will take you through the basics and beyond.
By Liz Baessler
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Make Sure Your Poinsettia Flowers Next Year: Follow This Easy Reblooming Schedule
The secret to yearly poinsettia blooms isn't magic – it's timing. Follow this simple schedule for bright red flowers next Christmas... and the one after that.
By Tyler Schuster
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How to Grow Shallots: A Complete Guide for a Bumper Harvest
One of the easiest members of the onion family to grow, shallots mature faster and require less space than their counterparts. Growing shallots in your garden is very easy. Look at how to grow shallots in this article.
By Ellen Wells
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Black Magic: Try These 8 Dark Flowering Plants For A Black Flower Garden Filled With Drama
Dark flowers add impact, drama, intensity and sophistication to yards and patios. Create your own black flower garden with some of these floral black beauties
By Tonya Barnett
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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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How to Grow Morning Glories for Stunning All-Summer Blooms
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

