Plant hairs, or trichomes, come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, each reflecting their unique evolutionary purpose. Some have glandular tips, while others play a protective role. Want to learn what trichomes reveal about a plant’s environment and function? Click to explore the fascinating world of botanical hair!

Fertilizing adds essential nutrients to the soil, ensuring plants thrive. With 17 elements vital to plant life, even one missing can spell trouble. Learn how to properly nourish your plants and keep their metabolic processes running smoothly. Click to dig into the basics of fertilizing!

Like humans sweat, plants cool themselves through transpiration. Water drawn up through roots evaporates through leaf pores, keeping plants cool during summer heat. Discover the science behind this essential process and how to help your garden beat the heat. Click to learn more!

Meet your garden’s pest-fighting heroes! Ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps are natural predators that feast on harmful insects. These non-toxic allies are better than any chemical solution. Click to discover how these three good bugs can keep your garden thriving!

Most leaves are green, but some dazzle in shades of red, brown, purple, and more. Chlorophyll dominates, but other pigments and environmental factors play a role. Curious why leaves vary in color? Click to uncover the science behind their vibrant hues!

Ever wonder how insects reach isolated rooftop gardens? Enter phoresy, a phenomenon where one organism hitches a ride on another. Discover how this quirky mode of transport explains unexpected pest appearances. Click to explore this fascinating ecological mystery!

Adjusting to a new environment can be tough for indoor plants. Often grown in sunny Florida, they must adapt to lower light and humidity indoors. Learn how to ease their transition and keep them thriving. Click for acclimatization tips!

Parenchyma cells are the unsung heroes of plants, driving photosynthesis, storage, and regeneration. Alive and adaptable, they are essential to all plant functions. Want to learn about these fascinating cells? Click to explore the backbone of plant biochemistry!

Deadheading is the practice of removing spent flowers to encourage new blooms. By redirecting energy from seed production to flowering, you can keep your roses thriving. Click to discover why deadheading is a gardener’s best trick for abundant blooms!

Why are some flowers red, white, or pink? It’s all about dominant and recessive genes. Learn the basics of genetic dominance, co-dominance, and incomplete dominance—and how they shape the colors we see in blooms. A great intro to plant biology from the horticulture team at Plant Specialists.

Some plants, like sweet potato vine or marigolds, release chemicals that suppress the growth or flowering of nearby species. This phenomenon, known as allelopathy, can impact container gardening and plant combinations. Click to explore how plants interact through chemical warfare!

Roses have captivated us for centuries, symbolizing love and beauty. From their enchanting fragrance to their historical significance, these blooms remain timeless. Discover why the rose, by any name, still smells as sweet. Click to uncover the allure of roses in gardens and culture!

Did you know that catnip is 10 times more effective than DEET at repelling mosquitoes? Nepeta cataria contains a natural essential oil that keeps pests at bay while adding charm to your garden. Click to learn how to harness this mosquito-fighting powerhouse!

Those perfectly cut circles in your plant leaves? They’re made by leaf cutter bees! These solitary pollinators use the pieces to build nests. Despite their handiwork on leaves, they’re invaluable to gardens. Click to learn about these fascinating and beneficial garden helpers!

Basil isn’t just for pesto. This remarkable herb spans continents and centuries—from ancient Hindu ceremonies to European folklore filled with scorpions and spells. Explore the sacred, the strange, and the spicy side of basil with Plant Specialists.

Ornamental bananas bring bold, tropical flair to NYC gardens. While not edible, varieties like ‘Siam Beauty’, ‘Velutina’, and ‘Zebrina’ offer dramatic foliage and unique blooms. Learn which species thrive in containers, how to overwinter them indoors, and how to bring Victorian garden vibes to your rooftop.