
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
The Malvacea Part 2
Part 2 of the Malvacea series delves into the Genus Cola, home to 125 African species. Known for their separate male and female flowers in large, branched inflorescences, these plants feature fused sepals and fascinating floral structures. Click to explore the unique characteristics of this remarkable genus!
The Malvacea Part 1
The diverse mallow family, including the beloved Hibiscus genus, boasts over 243 genera and 4,225 species of herbs, shrubs, and trees. Found worldwide, especially in tropical regions, many species hold economic and ornamental value. Click to discover the fascinating plants within this remarkable family!
Morphologic Relationships to Environment
Evolution often appears as a series of random genetic mutations, but convergent evolution tells a different story. Similar environments often select for the same traits, leading to striking similarities across unrelated species. Curious about how nature shapes life through adaptation? Click to explore the fascinating interplay of genetics and evolution!
Mandevilla and Dipladenia
Mandevilla and its relatives are the ultimate summer flowering vines, thriving even into November. Quick-growing and vigorous, these plants can reach 10 feet in a sunny season while blooming nonstop. Add vibrant pinks and other colors to your garden with these stunning, easy-care climbers. Click to learn more!
Leaf Shape, Size, and Thickness
Leaf morphology reveals the story of a plant’s evolution, showcasing variations in shape, size, thickness, and texture. These adaptations reflect the environment where the plant thrives, offering valuable clues about its origins. Curious how leaves tell a plant’s story? Click to explore the fascinating world of leaf characteristics!
Don’t Touch Me - Why Some Plants Are Prickly
Thorns, spines, and prickles are plants’ natural defense mechanisms, evolved to deter browsing animals from munching on them or their vital parts. But their purpose isn’t always purely physical—some offer protection against other threats. Curious about these sharp adaptations? Click to uncover the secrets behind prickly plants!
Going Wild with Indoor plant Containers
Why settle for boring pots when your indoor plants can shine in creative containers? From Tonka trucks filled with succulents to other imaginative options, the possibilities are endless. Explore unique ideas to bring charm and personality to your indoor space. Click to see how you can get wild with plant containers!
Palms for Indoor Spaces
Palms bring a touch of the tropics indoors with their elegant fronds. While there are many varieties to choose from, picking the right one depends on your space and care preferences. Ready to add a tropical vibe to your home? Click to explore the best indoor palms and find your perfect match!
Pink it is !
Add a pop of pink to your home with stunning indoor flowering plants! From long-term beauties like Anthurium that thrive in indirect light to other charming options, these plants bring vibrant blooms to your indoor space for months or even years with proper care. Click to explore the best pink indoor plants!
Edible Flowers: A Culinary Delight
Brighten up your dinner plate with edible flowers! From salads to desserts, flowers like nasturtiums and violets add color, flavor, and elegance to any dish. Want to make your meals bloom with creativity? Click to learn about the best edible flowers for your garden.
A Fungus Among Us
Root rot is a common issue for houseplant owners, causing stress and decline in plants. Learn to identify the signs, prevent overwatering, and rescue your indoor greenery before it’s too late. Click for expert advice on tackling this sneaky fungus!
Agapanthus: Lily of the Nile
Agapanthus, with its striking lilac-blue blooms, belongs to a small genus of fleshy-rooted perennials native to southern Africa. Often called Lily of the Nile, these plants are perfect for adding elegance to borders or containers. Click to discover their allure and care tips!
Pods: Nature’s Seed Protectors
Pods are the ultimate seed protectors, enclosing and nourishing seeds until they’re ready to sprout. Some dry out and split open, while others provide nutrients during development. Explore the fascinating world of pods, from their role in nature to their contributions to food. Click to uncover their secrets!
Ho Ho Ho: Christmas Trivia Time!
Ever wondered why red and green are the iconic Christmas colors? Thank holly plants and even Coca-Cola for the festive association! Join us for some fun holiday trivia and see how Plant Specialists brings seasonal cheer to Manhattan townhouses. Click for more festive insights!
The Beginners Guide to Gardening
New to gardening and don’t know where to start? From understanding the basics to volunteering at local gardens, this guide offers practical tips to help beginners grow their green thumbs. Click to learn how to dig in and create a thriving garden!
How to Age your Terracotta planter
Terracotta pots may start bland, but with a simple aging technique, you can give them character and charm. Discover an easy method to transform new planters into rustic, weathered works of art that add a timeless touch to your garden. Click for the step-by-step guide!
Moth orchid care
Phalaenopsis orchids, or moth orchids, are surprisingly low-maintenance and long-lasting. These stunning plants are perfect for adding elegance to your home. Learn how to care for them and keep their blooms thriving for months. Click for expert tips on orchid care!
Common Plant Diseases
Just like any living organism, plants are vulnerable to diseases caused by pathogens that attack their tissues. These endoparasites come in various forms, threatening plant health. Learn about the basics of plant pathology and how to identify and manage common plant diseases. Click to protect your greenery!