Francesco

Have you ever found yourself staring at a mushy and brown banana and wondering what to do with it? Instead of tossing it in the trash (or baking banana bread again), let me share a little trick a fellow plant-lover taught me: hang it in your garden. I know it sounds a bit bonkers, but … Read more

Have you ever walked into a room and been greeted by the refreshing smell of lemon? It’s one of my favorite little pleasures at home. I’m not talking about a spray or a candle either, I mean the real, living scent from a lemon plant I’ve been growing right in a cup on my windowsill. … Read more

Christmas is coming, so let’s chat about Christmas trees, one of those symbols that simply can’t be missing during the holidays. Over the years, I’ve learned a few must-do checks that make the whole experience smoother (and save you from some “oops” moments). And if you’ve got a fake tree, stick around for a few … Read more

Many people love herbs, not only for cooking but also for many other uses. However, I am aware that it can sometimes be tiring to have many plants in the house to take care of. Well, guess what? You can grow many tasty herbs using nothing but water, and keep them going all year long. … Read more

Hey there, plant friend! Today, we will talk about one of my favorite houseplants: the Christmas cactus. There’s something utterly satisfying about coaxing a new plant out of an old one, isn’t there? I remember staring at my Christmas cactus last year, thinking, “Imagine multiplying you for everyone I know!” Turns out, it’s not magic, … Read more

Ever since I brought home my first peace lily, I’ve been that person who geeks out over houseplants. These plants have followed me from apartment to apartment, and I honestly can’t get enough of them. In case you need convincing, here are 7 interesting (and totally heartfelt) reasons why I think everyone should keep a … Read more

Poinsettias are a holiday classic; I always love having a couple of them in the house during winter. Their red color brings me joy and warmth. They are generally easy to maintain, making them suitable even for beginner gardeners. However, they can sometimes be temperamental, and small mistakes can cause them to wilt and lose … Read more

The Christmas cactus is my favorite holiday plant. I am fascinated by its stems that droop downward and end in beautiful red or pink flowers. I also love it because it’s a plant that lasts a long time and can truly be with you for part of your life. Just consider that some people have … Read more

Much of what I know about gardening I owe to Nonna. But there’s one more special skill she taught me: how to make pine needle oil. It’s easy, inexpensive, and something you can do right in your kitchen, with items you probably already have. I remember gathering fallen pine branches on my grandparents’ farm in … Read more

Garden insects can be categorized into two main groups: beneficial or harmful.  As the name suggests, beneficial insects are those that are good for your garden. They prey on pests that damage your crops, pollinate flowers, and help break down dead plant matter.  Harmful insects, on the other hand, feed on plants and disrupt the … Read more