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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Flowering Radish Plant - Dealing With Radishes Bolting
Has your radish gone to bloom? If you have a flowering radish plant, then it has bolted or gone to seed. So why does this happen and what can you do to prevent it? Read the following article to find out.
By Nikki Tilley
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Crown Rot Identification And Tips For Crown Rot Treatment
Crown rot commonly affects many types of plants in the garden. So what exactly is this and how do you stop crown rot before it is too late? Read this article for information on crown rot disease.
By Nikki Tilley
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Prairie Smoke Plant - Tips For Growing Prairie Smoke
The prairie smoke wildflower is a plant of many uses. You can use it as a ground cover, put it in a rock garden, or add it to beds and borders. Find out more about the plant in this article.
By Nikki Tilley
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Chaotic, Yet Purposeful
Most gardeners plant with a specific theme in mind. When it comes to my particular gardening theme, chaos comes to mind, but in a good way.
By Nikki Tilley
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Daylilies And Irises Have A Place In The Shade
Although they’ll survive partially shaded spaces, both daylilies and irises bloom better in full sun. But mine do just fine in either.
By Nikki Tilley
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My Journey Growing A Gifted Container Neem Tree
For Christmas a few years back, my mom presented me with what looked like a stick growing in a pot. Of course, it was much more than that.
By Nikki Tilley
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Growing Poinsettia As A Houseplant, Foliage And All
The vast majority of us simply toss poinsettias after Christmas. I used to be on that list until I learned to love its green foliage.
By Nikki Tilley
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The Rewarding Battle Of Starting Seeds Indoors
Starting seeds and caring for seedlings indoors isn't always easy, but it's definitely worth it. Click to read more.
By Nikki Tilley
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The Seedy Side Of Town
The problem with seeds is you can't plant them all at once, so you have to find somewhere to put them. Click here to see how I manage it.
By Nikki Tilley
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How To Espalier: Instructions For Fruit Tree Training
Espalier trees are the result of intense training, in which the plants are urged to grow flat against a wall, fence, or trellis. Learn more about how to espalier fruit trees in this article.
By Nikki Tilley
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How To Keep Deer From Eating Plants - Garden Deer Protection For Plants
Trying to keep deer out of the garden can be frustrating but with a little know-how and ingenuity, your efforts could be well worth the trouble. Read here to learn how to keep deer out of gardens.
By Nikki Tilley
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Berry Containers - Berries Growing In A Container
Growing berries in containers can be a great alternative for those with little space. The key to success is adequate drainage and pot size. This article will provide information on what you need to be successful.
By Nikki Tilley
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Information On Storing Bulbs In Southern Climates
While many flowering bulbs are stored over winter, in many southern climates, storing bulbs may not be necessary. This article will explain more about when storing bulbs in the south is needed.
By Nikki Tilley
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Vines To Use In The Landscape
Growing vines is a great way to use vertical space and increase appeal, especially with little or no space. Get tips on planting vines in this article.
By Nikki Tilley
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Making Tomato Cages - How To Build A Tomato Cage
While tomatoes are easy to grow, these plants oftentimes require support. Tomato plants can be successfully supported as they grow by building tomato cages. Get tips for building tomato cages in this article.
By Nikki Tilley
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Build Your Own Indoor Water Ponds
Ponds are not only a welcome addition to the landscape, but they can also be attractive features indoors. They are easy to create, easy to maintain, and can be tailored to fit your needs. This article will help.
By Nikki Tilley
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Fondness For Tulip Trees - A Towering Tree Near To My Heart
We have a towering tulip tree growing at the side of our property. I’ve always loved this tree for the unique character it provides. Learn more here.
By Nikki Tilley
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Amaryllis Planting Outdoors – Learn How To Grow Amaryllis In The Garden
It may come as a pleasant surprise to know that in warmer climes, up to USDA Zone 7b, planting amaryllis outside in the garden is an option. To learn more about growing amaryllis in gardens, click the following article.
By Nikki Tilley