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

NEWS & MEDIA - Click here to view archives of Plant Specialists’ appearances in the News, Media and Books

Poisonous Caterpillars - in New York ? - What !!!

Fall is caterpillar season. It's common to see them crawling around prior to spinning their cocoons for the winter, where they'll spend the cold months and emerge as adult moths and butterflies in the spring.Some species of moth caterpillars in New York, although attractive to look at, can sting

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Chlorophytum

 Chlorophytum are commonly called spider plants. It’s a genus of almost 200 species of tropical flowering plants native to Africa, Australia, and Asia.But of all of those there are only 2 species commonly used as houseplants. C orquidastrum, and C comosum

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Muscari - AKA Grape Hyacinths

Muscari bulbs produce dainty clusters of small blooms that make a dramatic under-planting for taller bulbs. But if planted in mass they create an unforgettable show of color and style on their own!Classified in the Asparagus family – there are about forty species.

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Chlorosis Indicators

The word chlorosis is derived from the Greek - kloros - meaning "greenish-yellow".This condition is when leaves produce insufficient chlorophyll. Because the pigment chlorophyll is what makes leaves green - chlorotic leaves look pale, yellow, or yellow-white. Many time the inter-venal tissue is also lighter than the rest of the leaf. This color contrast is a clear indicator of chlorosis. 

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TUBEROSE - Grandmas Favorite Fragrance

 Now renamed Agave amica, this native of Mexico has an abundantly intoxicating fragrance. Cultivated by the Aztecs for centuries. They called it “omixochitl” - “bone flower”, probably due to its whiteness.An herbaceous tender ornamental, it produces from its tuberous rootstock a rosette of long, narrow, semi-succulent foliage. It’s related to asparagus and belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family. 

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The Rhododendrons

 Rhododendron is a very large genus – NO KIDDING - about 1,024 species!They are in the heather family (Ericaceae) - either evergreen or deciduous. Most are native to eastern Asia and the Himalayan region. Because of their spectacular flowers they are grown in every corner of the planet!Their name comes from the words RED TREE - referring to its flowers.  These can be scented or not and actually occur in a wide range of colors—white, yellow, pink, scarlet, purple, and blue.Ranging in habit from evergreen to deciduous as well as low-growing ground covers to tall trees. Some are mat like dwarfs only 4 inches high, while others are trees in excess of 40 feet.Leaves are thick and leathery and are evergreen in all but the azalea species, some of which are deciduous.  

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Millipedes

 Millipedes are arthropods that are closely related to insects and spiders. They are dorsal-ventrally flattened and have a hard exoskeleton.  Also known as the greenhouse millipede or flat-backed millipede - Oxidus gracilis – are not native to the United States but came from Asia. They are common throughout the country and most of the world.They differ from centipedes in that these have only one pair of legs on each body segment. 

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ROTATING YOUR HOUSEPLANTS

Plants have evolved a way to adapt to the variable light conditions in which they are growing. It is called a phototropic response - the bending of a plants stems and leaves towards the light source – specifically a directional blue light source.This movement is also called orthotropic

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Root Pruning and Soil Replacements

Plants evolved to use a volume of soil that is about twice their canopy and 24” deep.  With this volume of soil of they are ensured to have enough water and minerals. It enables them to stay healthy and look their best.

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Going on a Caribbean Winter Holiday?

Heading off to the tropics this winter? Make the most of your Caribbean getaway with helpful advice on how to stay safe and avoid potential hazards while soaking up the sun. Whether it’s staying protected from the elements or planning your activities wisely, this guide ensures a relaxing and worry-free vacation.

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Happy New Year from Plant Specialists!

As the year comes to a close, we take a moment to reflect on the incredible gardens we’ve helped create and maintain with your support. Here’s to a bright and beautiful new year, filled with flourishing plants and fresh opportunities to make your outdoor spaces thrive. Thank you for being part of our journey!

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The Plant Specialists Elves Were Busy !

Our talented team of Plant Specialists worked their magic this holiday season, transforming ordinary gardens into festive wonderlands. From sparkling lights to beautifully arranged greenery, see how our “elves” spread holiday cheer and brought smiles to our clients with custom seasonal designs.

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The Poinsettia – a reminder that Christmas is near

The poinsettia, or Euphorbia pulcherrima, is a symbol of holiday tradition with its bright red and green leaves. Discover its fascinating history, cultural significance, and tips for keeping this festive plant vibrant and healthy throughout the season. Learn how to make it a cherished part of your holiday decor.

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The Issues with Mealy Bugs

Mealybugs might be tiny, but they can wreak havoc on your plants if left unchecked. These pests thrive in warm conditions and can quickly infest indoor and outdoor plants. Dive into our expert advice on identifying mealybugs, preventing their spread, and effectively treating infestations to keep your plants healthy.

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Are You Grinch Ready ?

The holidays are just around the corner—so is your garden ready to impress? From sparkling decorations to seasonal plant care, we’re sharing tips to ensure your outdoor space is as festive as the season itself. Let us help you create a garden that’s sure to dazzle even the grumpiest of guests.

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GUIDE TO NURSERY CONTAINER SIZES

Ever wondered what the numbers on nursery pots mean? Our guide to container sizes demystifies the world of plant pots, helping you select the perfect size for your gardening needs. Whether it’s for repotting or planting, learn how to ensure your plants have room to grow and flourish.

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