
Check back often for fresh tips & inspiration — don’t forget to share your favorites with friends! —
Check back often for fresh tips & inspiration — don’t forget to share your favorites with friends! —
Plant Specialists Blog
Welcome to the Plant Specialists Blog – your premier destination for expert insights on revitalizing urban landscapes into verdant, flourishing environments. From sophisticated garden designs and tailored planters to custom pergolas, we provide a wealth of tips, innovative ideas, and exclusive glimpses into our projects throughout New York City. With over 53 years of experience in greening New York, our team of horticulturists and designers shares practical tips, creative ideas, and the latest trends to help you cultivate your own green oasis. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, explore our articles to enhance your gardening journey
Synthetic lawn - isn't that Astro Turf?
Gone are the days of tacky blue AstroTurf! Today’s synthetic lawns offer realistic, low-maintenance alternatives for outdoor spaces. Perfect for modern gardens, they provide durability and charm without the upkeep of real grass. Click to explore the evolution of synthetic lawns and how they can elevate your space!
Its Halloween month - time for some spooky garden superstitions !
BOO! Did you know the tradition of knocking on wood for luck may come from Celtic or German folklore? Supernatural beings were thought to live in trees! Celebrate Halloween by exploring spooky gardening superstitions and fun ideas to bring the spirit of the season to your outdoor space. Click to learn more!
Oh No ! Spider mites !!
Spider mites may be tiny, but their appetite is massive! These pests can destroy plants in just weeks. Learn how to identify, prevent, and combat these voracious invaders before they take over your garden. Click to save your plants from the spider mite menace!
Mineral Deficiencies
Plants can’t speak, but their leaves tell a story. Mineral deficiencies often show up as discoloration or vein patterns, leaving plants weak and undernourished. Learn how to identify and address these issues to restore your plants’ health. Click for expert tips on diagnosing and fixing deficiencies.
HOW DO ROOTS BREATHE ?
Ever wonder how roots get oxygen when soil is packed with water? As water drains, air returns to the spaces between soil particles, supplying roots with much-needed oxygen. Discover the science behind this essential process and how proper watering can keep plants thriving. Click to learn more!
Hair!
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!
STAYING COOL
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!
The Color Purple
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!
Acclimatization of Indoor Plants
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
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!
Dominance and Flower Color
Flower colors arise from genetic expression, where dominant and recessive genes influence the pigmentation of petals. Plants contain two sets of chromosomes, with each gene playing a role in creating the stunning variations we see. Click to learn how genetics shapes the colors of the blooms around us!
ALLELOPATHY
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!
A rose by any other name
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!