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Trees & Houseplants : Home & Garden
Leyland Cypress and Tree Worms
The Leyland cypress (x Cupressocyparis leylandii) is a fast-growing tree often used as a screen. The trees are susceptible to attack from a variety of damaging insects that feed on the foliage, such as bagworms.
Planting Ligustrum Japonicum
Ligustrum japonicum, or Japanese privet, is grown as a shrub or small tree. It grows rapidly into a dense hedge or a small, multi-stemmed tree. With careful pruning and age, the tree takes on the appearance of an over-sized bonsai. Native to Japan and Asia, it is considered invasive in several state
How to Kill Gophers With Granola
Not only do gophers leave unsightly holes in your lawn or garden, but they also can destroy vegetation and steal your garden crops, if left unchecked. If the gophers on your property have outsmarted traps or you want to ensure the gopher dies, consider using a bait of zinc phosphide-laced granola. W
How to Stabilize Soil
Soil erosion can be a very serious problem. It occurs all over the world and can be caused as a result of heavy rain, the melting of ice or strong winds. Human activity and building can also result in soil erosion. There are a few ways you can stabilize the soil on your property, however. If your ga
How to Propagate a Pencil Cactus Plant
The pencil cactus (Euphorbia tirucalli) isn't a true cactus, but a sun-loving, spineless succulent plant native to tropical areas of India and Africa. Pencil cactus plant is named for the thin, somewhat brittle, pencil-like stems. Once established, pencil cactus thrives with little water and tolerat
How to Compare Garden Pond Aerators
The process of aerating water involves increasing the level of oxygen saturation present in a lake or pond. Several varieties are available if you want to add an aerator to your garden pond. Floating aerators sit on the surface of your water, while paddlewheel aerators are on floats. Fountains are a
How to Grow a Magnolia Bush
Having a small yard doesn't have to stop you from making the magnolia's fragrant pink blooms part of your home's spring landscape. Bush varieties, like Magnolia grandiflora 'Little Gem,' fit comfortably into smaller landscapes that can't accommodate a full-size magnolia tree. This shrub isn't just f
How to Grow Plants in Wine Bottles
You can grow small plants in wine bottles, creating a tiny garden. These types of greenhouse displays are usually called terrariums. Although wine bottles come in various colors, a clear bottle works best. This allows enough light for plant growth. Also, a larger bottle with a wider neck allows more
Clothing Made of Mechanically Pressed Bamboo
Clothing made from bamboo provides many benefits over other materials. In addition to its incredible softness, it contains natural antibacterial agents, and its wicking properties make it ideal for outdoor and active wear. Bamboo is a sustainable resource that is processed either mechanically or che
How to Test the PH of Garden Soil Using PH Paper
Knowing the pH of garden soil is useful when determining where to plant a garden. While most plants prefer a neutral range of pH for soil between 6.5 and 7.5, plants such as blueberries and azaleas grow better in acidic soil with a lower pH range. Once a gardener knows if their soil is acidic or alk
Ideal Soil for Potting
Plants need soil to provide them with nutrients, oxygen, water and physical support for their roots. Unlike plants grown in the ground, rainfall and natural decomposition processes don't provide for your plants, so you need a potting mix that will support all aspects of their health. Myriad options
How to Germinate Garden Peas
Germination is the process of a dry seed absorbing water. As the seed begins to swell an enzyme is activates, which increases respiration and causes the plant cells to duplicate. The small embryo swells until the seed case pops open. The root tip is the first part of the plant to appear from the see
Mold Problems on Dahlia Bulbs
Dahlia flowers and foliage provide color and texture to any home garden or landscape. However, this lovely plant is susceptible to gray mold, which affects the appearance of the flower.
Why Won't My Bougainvillea Flower?
Bougainvillea are dense tropical vines with deep green leaves that add vertical color to the garden. The flowers are small and white, but are surrounded by colorful bracts that resemble petals and grow in shades including red, orange, yellow and purple.
Science Projects for Plant Light
The process by which plants capture light and turn it into food for itself and oxygen for animal life is called photosynthesis. To optimize photosynthesis, it is helpful to learn how different variations of light, such as color, duration or intensity, affect photosynthesis. More efficient photosynth
How to Propagate a Butterfly Bush
Three ways to propagate a butterfly bush are by planting seeds, root cuttings and root division. Growing plants from collected seeds may not generate the same flower color or other desired characteristics. Division should only be done on healthy, established plants. Root cuttings from a butterfly bu
How to Grow Blueberries in Clay Soil
Blueberry plants grow best in highly acidic soil. When planning to grow a blueberry bush the pH level of the soil should be between 4.09 and 5.0. By nature, clay soil is extremely alkaline. Blueberries can not grow in this alkaline clay soil. To grow blueberries in clay soil, you will first need to
How do I Grow Saffron Crocus Bulbs?
Saffron crocus, a fall blooming flower, needs planting in the spring so it will bloom in the fall. The herb produces purple flowers, and is one of the most expensive spices. Asian and Mediterranean dishes typically contain this spice. The saffron crocus grows best in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9. The
Avocado Tree FAQ
Avocado trees are grown commercially in the United States and in tropical areas of the world. The avocado fruit is primarily used for consumption and the oil is used in making fine lotions and soap.