your go-to guide to seed starting for late starters

If the idea of starting seeds just crossed your mind, or you simply didn’t have the time to tackle this project earlier in the year, do not fear!

Because yes – contrary to popular belief, you absolutely CAN start your seeds in April. It’s not too late.

Especially if you’re into delicious late bloomers, like asparagus, beets, peppers, and even catnip (your furry friends will love you forever!).

let’s get started! but first…

Check the last average frost date in your region with this helpful chart. It includes useful guides for which seeds you can start now, which seeds prefer direct over indoor sowing, and when the best time to transplant your indoor seedlings would be.

there are two ways to sow your seeds. Let’s get into them!

option 1: indoor Sowing

Indoor sowing is the process of starting your seeds indoors, and then gradually exposing and transplanting them outdoors. Almost every seed can be started using this method – but particularly long-season crops, which, as the name implies, take a longer time to grow.

here’s what you need to get started:

1

step 1: prepare your potting mix

Fill a large bowl with your potting mix, and add in a sprinkle of water to ensure even soil moisture.

2

step 2: prepare your seed tray

Place your seed tray inside your drip tray, and fill each cell with soil, just below the top of the cell.

 

3

step 3: sow your seeds

The rule of thumb with seed sowing is: plant yours two to three times as deep as they are wide. So if your seeds are tiny, you can sprinkle a few over the soil. If they’re larger, you can push a couple of them into the soil in each cell, ensuring they’re covered by a layer of it. To better understand how deep you need to place your seeds, read the packaging they come in.

4

step 4: prepare for growth!

Add labels to each seed container. Then, place your plastic cover on top of your tray, and put it on the heat mat, under your LED or glow lights. Once your seedlings start growing, gradually expose them to the outside environment. Then, mid May or June, they’ll be ready to be transplanted.

option 2: direct sowing

This method involves planting your seeds directly into your garden or outdoor space, rather than sowing them indoors first, and then transplanting. While indoor sowing gives you more control over your seeds’ environment, direct sowing allows for the development of stronger, healthier plant roots.

here’s what you need to get started:

  • Your seeds
  • Craft sticks for labeling

1

step 1: prepare your soil

Take the time to get your soil fully ready, by removing all the weeds, rocks, and debris. Then, loosen your soil with a garden fork, raking it until you have a level surface.

2

step 2: prepare your seeds

Depending on the type of seeds you have, you might need to manipulate them slightly before placing them in the soil. For example, some seeds need to be softened, by being soaked in water prior to planting. Others need to be scarified, by being rubbed against sandpaper to thin their hard shells. Read your seeds’ instruction packet to ensure you’re preparing them properly.

 

3

step 3: plant your seeds

Just like with indoor sowing, try to stick to the seed size-to-soil depth rule. The bigger the seed, the deeper you want to sow it. Tiny seeds can simply be sprinkled on top of the soil, while bigger seeds will need to be buried at a prescribed depth. But don’t stress! Seeds aren’t particularly picky, and will likely germinate regardless of soil depth.

4

step 4: moisten your soil

Never – we repeat, NEVER- let your soil dry out fully after planting your seeds. Nothing gets in the way of seed growth more than dry soil. To give your seeds the best chance for success, gently water them using a light-pressure setting on your hose, and make sure to not leave any puddles – or you risk overwatering.

 

5

step 5: X marks the seeds

Use your labeled craft sticks to mark where you planted your seeds. This will help you keep track of their germination, monitor their growth, and not accidentally overcrowd them with new seeds or mistaken them for weeds.

Still got questions about the seed starting process? Let our experts help, by leaving a comment in our Plant Chat!

#HappySeedStarting

It’s the most wonderful time of the year: seed starting season is upon us! Starting your own seeds is by far the most cost effective way to create a lush, bountiful veggie garden in your own backyard. Here are three different ways to start your seeds: one simple setup requiring little equipment, an intermediate setup with a Root Farm Grow Light, and an AeroGarden to really kickstart those seeds.

MiracleGro Seed Starting Potting Mix + Window  

This is the simplest seed starting method. Basically requiring sunlight and soil, it is also the method that requires the least investment (sunlight is free!).

To start seeds using this method, you need:

  • A sunny window to put your seeds
  • Seed starting pots (can substitute for egg cartons or nursery pots)
  • Seeds
  • MiracleGro Seed Starting Potting Mix
  • Plant labels (can use popsicle sticks)
  • Permanent marker

This seed starting setup is as simple as filling the pots with MiracleGro Seed Starting Potting Mix and placing a seed in each pot. Label the future seedlings with permanent marker on plant labels or popsicle sticks and place them on a sunny windowsill. Be sure to water them every day or two to keep the soil moist.

MiracleGro Seed Starting Potting Mix + Root Farm Grow Light  

Starting seeds this way takes things up a notch by adding in a grow light. Grow lights are great because they give your plants a consistent source of light, regardless of whether the weather decides to cooperate. I love the Root Farm Grow Light because it’s large enough to fit a whole tray of seeds underneath, and it keeps the seeds on the warm side as well.

To start seeds using this method, you need:

  • Root Farm Grow Light
  • Seed starting pots (can substitute for egg cartons or nursery pots)
  • Seeds
  • MiracleGro Seed Starting Potting Mix
  • Plant labels (can use popsicle sticks)
  • Permanent marker

This seed starting setup is similar to the previous one. Begin by filling the pots with MiracleGro Seed Starting Potting Mix and placing a seed in each pot. Label your seedlings with permanent marker on plant labels or popsicle sticks. Assemble the Root Farm Grow Light and plug it in, placing it over the seeds. Water the seeds every one to two days to keep the soil moist.

 

Pro tip: Try plugging your Root Farm Grow Light into a smart plug. Use the app on your phone to set a schedule so you don’t have to worry about turning it on and off every day!

AeroGarden Seed Starting System

Of these three methods, the fastest way to get your seeds to germinate is, without a doubt, the AeroGarden Seed Starting System. AeroGarden is a hydroponic growing system for 5x faster growth than soil. The AeroGarden Seed Starting System is an accessory that is sold separately from the AeroGarden, and is available for the various models (be sure to choose the Seed Starting System made specifically for your AeroGarden model.)

To start seeds with the AeroGarden Seed Starting System, you’ll need:

Begin by pre-soaking the grow sponges in water. Swap the standard AeroGarden grow deck for the Seed Starting System grow deck and place one sponge in each of the holes. Place a seed in each of the grow sponges. Plug the AeroGarden in and go follow the steps to start a garden. Fill the reservoir with water and plant food (according to directions on the back of the bottle).

 

Pro tip: To “label” your seedlings, draw a diagram of the AeroGarden grow deck (or take a photo with a smartphone) and label each space according to which seed you planted where.

For more advice and ideas on Aerogardens, visit www.aerogarden.com

#easypeasy

Whether you’ve run out of shelf space for your plant babies or are looking for a rental-friendly way to bring hanging plants into your life, a hanging plant stand can be a cute and functional addition to your space.

here’s how to turn a humble clothing rack into a minimalist plant stand

here’s what you need to get started:

  • steel clothing rack (available at many big box stores)
  • project panel/wood/plywood (to fit clothing rack)
  • 4 EMT straps (sized to fit around pipes of the plant stand)
  • 4 wood screws
  • flat black spray paint (or colour of your choice)
  • wood stain
  • paintbrush
  • drill or screwdriver
  • sand paper
  • saw
  • pencil
  • measuring tape
  • hanging plants and pots

lets gro #plantproject

measuring and marking shelf for plant stand

step one.

Measure the base of the clothing rack, where you will eventually add the bottom shelf, and note the dimensions. With a pencil and measuring tape, use those dimensions to mark the piece of wood where it will need to be cut to fit on the base.

step two.

Use a saw to cut along the guidelines you made in step one.

If you don’t have a saw (or aren’t comfortable using one), most major hardware stores will cut wood pieces down to size for you – just be sure to bring the exact dimensions you need!

staining shelf board for plant stand

step three.

Sand any cut edges on the piece of wood.rnrnTo finish the shelf, coat it with the wood stain of your choice. Skip this step for a more boho look, or paint the shelf instead for a modern farmhouse vibe.

spray painting clothing rack for plant stand

step four.

Spray paint the clothing rack. You may need to do several thin coats to ensure full coverage, letting each coat fully dry before going in with the next.

step five.

Use four EMT straps and wood screws to attach the piece of wood to the bottom shelf area of the clothing rack.

styling plants on the finished plant stand clothing rack

step six.

The final step – and my favourite one! – is to style your plants on your new plant stand. Place larger plants or plant care supplies on the lower shelf, and smaller hanging plants in macrame hangers from the top bar. Vary pot and basket choice to really express your style and help your new plant stand fit in with your space!

#easypeasy

let’s be honest: watering plants can feel a bit like a chore sometimes. We love our plant babies, but life just gets in the way.  

but do not fear – plant straws are here. This simple, easy to install self-watering plant straw system is your key to plant-watering freedom. So, whether you forget to water your plants, or you are planning a getaway and want to make sure yours are taken care of, then this post is for you.

plant straw in action

thirst things first: what are plant straws? 

Plant straws are made using two simple things : a long cotton cord,  and a thin metal tube. One end of the cord is buried in the soil of a plant, while the other end lies in a vessel of water. The cord draws out moisture from the vessel and releases it into a plant’s soil. The thin metal tube, which the cord is strung through, keeps the cord stable – and makes the entire system look chic. So, expect LOTS of compliments pouring in once you have set up your plant straw. 

how do plant straws work?  

If you are shaking your head furiously and thinking, “this can’t be real,” you are not alone. The idea of a cotton cord watering your plants can seem too good to be true. But don’t click away just yet! There’s a scientific explanation to how all this works.  

The cord inside the tube wants to stay evenly moist, so it constantly draws out water from the vessel you placed it in. Meanwhile, your soil instinctively absorbs moisture from the wet cord when it needs a dose of hydration.  

ready? let’s gro. 

all materials needed to set up plant straw.

here’s what you need to get started: 

  • A plant tube of your choice 
  • A cotton cord that is a several inches longer than your tube 
  • A glass vessel 
  • And – obviously – water! 

step one. measure twice, cut once.

Start by measuring how much of the cotton cord and tube you need. Be sure to leave a few inches that can sit in your plant as well as in the water of your vessel.

lets gro #plantproject

wet your cotton cord in water for plant straw

step two. H2O is the way to go

Next up, wet your cotton cord in water until it is fully soaked. Then, squeeze out the excess.  

step three. show us your roots

Feed your cord through the tube. Take one end of your cord and push it several inches below the soil’s surface. Depending on how much water your plant needs, you might want to bury more of your cord within.  

step four. just add water

Feed what is left of your cord through your tube. Then, fill up a glass vessel with water, and place the remaining end of the cord in it. 

feed cotton cord through straw for plant straw

step five. sip sip, hooray

Cheers to crossing “water my plants” off your to-do list for good! Now that you have set up your self-watering plant straw system, the only time you will need to think about watering your plants is when it’s time to feed them, or when you need to refill your vessel.  

Do your plants actually need a straw? 

The answer: it depends. The thirstier your plant is, the more we recommend you invest in a plant straw! For example, if you have got a Monstera Deliciosa or Monstera Adansonii, a plant straw could really benefit their extra hydration needs.  

Got more questions about plant straws? Or just want to chat? Come hang out with us and our plant experts in the Plant Chat. 

#easypeasy

plant straw sstem

plant straw

plant straw

Beginner

poinsettia

aka euphorbia pulcherrima

Poinsettia are native to Mexico and Central America. They are often used as decoration and gifts during Christmas holidays.

variations

There are over 100 varieties of Poinsettias. Some variations include ‘Premium Picasso’, ‘Monet Twilight’, ‘Shimmer’, and ‘Surprise’ poinsettia.

light

indirect

Need about 6 hours of indirect sunlight daily

water + feeding

not too thirsty

Water in moderation when soil is dry to the touch

toxic

kind of

They’re not toxic to humans or pets. However, the white, milky sap can irritate some people’s skin and can cause an upset stomach.

location

flexible

They’ll be happy in a semi-shaded or sunny area

humidity

love it

Poinsettia enjoy 50 – 75% humidity, so boost up the moisture

size

small friends

Potted poinsettia will remain small at 8 – 12 inches

pro tip

dry soil is ok

Allow the soil to dry out between watering, especially in the spring.

fun fact

need light and dark

The short days and long nights of fall and winter are perfect for poinsettia. It’s actually what causes them to bloom.

beyond the basics

  • soil + potting

    Whether poinsettia is growing indoors or outdoors, they prefer a loose, well-draining potting mix. Consider using Miracle-Gro® Moisture Control® Potting Mix. You can also add Perlite and Peat Moss to your soil for some added nutrients.

  • when to repot

    As your poinsettia grows, so does its roots. To avoid your poinsettia getting root-bound, repot it in the spring. It’s generally recommended that by mid-May, your poinsettia will be ready to repot. Choose a pot that is about 2 inches wider and deeper than its current pot. And of course, refresh the soil when you repot.

  • propagation

    The most common way to propagate poinsettia is by taking a cutting. Propagating from cuttings ensures a clone of the parent plant. No surprises! To start, wait until the spring to take your cutting. Using sharp scissors or pruners, cut a 3 – 4 inch stem from the parent plant. Then cut off a few of the lower leaves to promote root growth from the cut edge. Be sure to leave at least 3 leaves at the top of the cutting. Transplant your cutting to a small container with well-draining potting mix such as using Miracle-Gro® Seed Starting Potting Mix. Keep your cutting in a bright, humid area, and mist the leaves regularly to stimulate growth.

  • pest control

    Whiteflies are the most common pests for poinsettias. Do regular checks under the leaves of your poinsettia and keep an eye out for clumps of greenish eggs. Use a gentle insecticide like Ortho® Bug B Gon® ECO Insecticide Ready-to-Use to easily and quickly get rid of white flies.

troubleshooting

  • Why are my cuttings collapsing?

    Bacterial rot. This causes the base or stem of the cuttings to become mushy and eventually collapse. You may also notice a smell surrounding your plant, which is also caused by this bacterial infection. You may be able to mitigate this by proper watering and misting practices. It’s best to cut off misting and watering for a while once you notice the stems are a little soft.

  • Why are my poinsettia’s leaves turning black?

    Temperature fluctuations. Sudden temperature fluctuations will shock these tropical plants. To keep your poinsettia happy, make sure it’s in a bright space that can also receive a few hours of shade or darkness. Be sure to keep your plant away from radiators, fireplaces and space heaters too.

  • Why is my poinsettia so pale all of a sudden?

    Could be spider mites. These little pests feed off the plant’s sap, causing the leaves to turn pale and sometimes develop little red spots. If you catch spider mites early enough, you may be able to salvage your plant. Use a gentle insecticide like Ortho® Bug B Gon® ECO Insecticide Ready-to-Use to gently take care of this problem. A recovering poinsettia will perk up and brighten up within a week or two.

  • Why are my poinsettia leaves drooping and yellow?

    Over- or underwatering. Both over and under-watering your poinsettia will cause its leaves to droop or look wilted. If you’re over-watering your plant, be sure to let its soil dry out a bit. Discard any excess water at the bottom of its pot to prevent it from sitting water and developing root rot. If you’re underwatering, consider boosting your watering routine with Miracle-Gro Indoor Plant Food for the next two watering cycles. You can also start misting the leaves of your poinsettia to increase its water in-take. But don’t overdo it, let the soil dry out a bit between watering.

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Beginner

amaryllis

aka hippeastrum genus

a plant native to warm, tropical climates. There are over 1600 species in this plant family.

variations

Ferrari’ Amaryllis, ‘Dancing Queen’ Amaryllis, ‘Mont Blanc’ Amaryllis, ‘Papillio Improved’ Amaryllis, ‘Faro’ Amaryllis, ‘Estella’ Amaryllis, ‘Athene’ White Amaryllis, ‘Double Dragon’ Amaryllis

light

bright, direct

Needs a sunny window to get at least 4 hours of sun daily

water + feeding

not too thirsty

Only water once the top 2 inches of soil have dried.

toxic

yes

The bulbs are the most toxic, but blooms can also be hazardous if eaten

location

picky pals

Need lots of bright, direct sunlight

humidity

not too much

Amaryllis don’t need misting

size

medium

Can grow up to 4 – 6 inches

pro tip

big bulbs mean lots of flowers

That’s right. We like big bulbs, and we can not lie. The bigger the bulb the more blooms you can expect. In fact, a Jumbo bulb (34/36 cm) can produce 3 stems with about 4 to 5 flowers per stem.

fun fact

It’s a look-a-like

The flowers on an amaryllis look very similar to a lily but they are not actually the same flower. They are very distant relatives!

beyond the basics

  • soil + potting

    Amaryllis needs to be planted in a light, well draining potting soil. Consider using Miracle-Gro® Indoor Potting Mix. The combination of coconut coir and perlite help control moisture and release water when your plant needs it. If you’re growing a single amaryllis bulb, you can plant it in a 6-inch pot. If you’re growing multiple bulbs (about 2 –3) use a bigger pot, closer to 10 – 12inches. As always, make sure your pot has a drain hole and be sure to leave the top 1/3 of your amaryllis bulb sticking out of the soil.

  • when to repot

    Your amaryllis won’t need to be repotted very often. In most cases, you will only need to repot your amaryllis after 3 – 4 years. It’s best to repot once your amaryllis has gone through a dormant stage, typically this means repotting in the spring.

  • propagation

    There are 3 ways to propagate amaryllis:

    1. Through Seeds. Look for seed pods about four weeks after your amaryllis begins to flower. When the seeds are ready, they’ll split open a bit and turn yellow. Then you can gently shake out the little black seeds.
    2. Separating bulbs/offsets. Look for firm bulblet that are about a third of the size of the “mother” bulb. Trim back any extra foliage to 2 inches above the bulb. Gently remove the bulblets and replant as soon as possible. You can remove the bulblets with either a small knife or just your fingers.
    3. Choose a bulb at least 6 inches in diameter. Cut into four pieces, vertically, making sure each section has at least two scales. Plant with the basal plate (bottom) of the bulb pointing down, covering only a third of the bulb with soil.
  • pest control

    Keep an eye out for common pests like mealybugs and fungus gnats. If you spot these pesky bugs, you can use a gentle insecticide like Ortho® Bug B Gon® ECO Insecticidal Soap to get rid of them without damaging your plant.

troubleshooting

  • Why won’t my amaryllis bloom?

    There could be a few reasons. The main reason could be that your amaryllis isn’t getting enough light. Once you’ve moved your plant to a bright window that gets light for about 4 hours a day, you should see blooms. Still nothing? Try adding a little plant food to bump up the nutrients. Consider using a tropical plant food like Miracle-Gro® Tropical Plant Food.

  • Why are my amaryllis leave drooping?

    Over or underwatering. The issue could also be that your amaryllis isn’t getting enough light. If you know that your watering schedule is okay, then try moving your plant to a more direct light source.

  • How do I know if my amaryllis bulb is rotten?

    Look for colour and texture. If your bulb has a uniform colour and firm texture, it’s a healthy bulb. If you spot signs of a pest infestation, mold or any damage to the actual bulb, these are red flags that indicate your bulb will likely rot. Seeing shriveled or brown skin on the outside? That’s totally normal.

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Beginner

garlic

aka allium sativum

Garlic is one of the most commonly used vegetables in cooking. It offers a variety of health benefits and can be consumed in a myriad of ways including cooked, preserved in oil or even eaten raw.

variations

There are about 11 different types of garlic. They are classified as “hard neck” or “soft neck” variations.

light

full sun

Plant in a place where they can get 6 – 8 hours of sun

water + feeding

not too thirsty

It’s best to water deep, but garlic only requires between a half to a full inch of water per week.

toxic

yes and no

Garlic is toxic for cats and dogs, but delicious for humans

size

small-ish

Average garlic bulbs have about 6-10 cloves, but their foliage can reach up to 2ft in height.

pro tip

plant in the fall

Plant your garlic 4 – 6 weeks prior to first frost

fun fact

keeps more than vampires away

Garlic is known as one of the healthiest foods, containing healing properties such as: anti blood coagulation, antioxidant, antiviral, antimicrobial, lowers cholesterol, reduces blood pressure, anticancer properties and can be used to help fight off colds.

beyond the basics

  • soil + planting

    Plant garlic cloves 4 to 8 inches apart, and about 2 inches deep. Be sure you plant the cloves with the root side pointing down. Your garlic needs well-draining soil, such as Miracle-Gro® All Purpose Garden Soil. Add a little compost to bump up the nutrients of soil.

  • companion planting

    Garlic can be planted next to other veggies such as beets, celery, lettuce, potatoes, strawberries or even tomatoes. It’s best to avoid planting near peas or beans.

  • harvesting

    Once your garlic has sprouted some leaves, and a few of the lower leaves have turned brown, your garlic is ready to pick. The only way to tell is to pick a few bulbs as a test. If the cloves have filled the skin, they’re ready to harvest. Be sure not to let them wait too long once you notice the lower leaves browning, otherwise the protective layers around the cloves will be too thin. This means the garlic won’t store well.

  • pest control

    White rot is a common disease that can wipe out an entire garlic crop. This is identified by little poppy seed sized bumps on the stem, and white fuzzy growth on the bottom of the bulb. If left untreated it can remain in the soil for many years. Keep an eye out for symptoms from mid-summer to autumn. If you’re noticing this has been a problem where you’re planting, apply a fungicide. For best results, apply the fungicide in a 6 inch band over the planting trench. This should happen immediately before planting.

troubleshooting

  • why is my garlic drooping and brown?

    Could be time to harvest. When garlic is ready to be harvested, a few of the bottom leaves will turn brown and droop. The easiest way to tell if your garlic is ready to harvest is to count back. Garlic needs about 240 days to mature.

  • no, really why is my garlic drooping?

    Nutrient problems. Your soil could be lacking in some key nutrients like nitrogen, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Consider using a plant food like, Miracle-Gro® Shake ‘N Feed® Tomato, Fruits & Vegetables Plant Food.

  • why is my garlic not sprouting?

    Extreme weather conditions. Sometimes after a particularly harsh winter, garlic crops can come out a bit crumpled or very small. One way to prevent this is to water and mulch immediately after planting. Be sure not to add too much mulch though! Too much mulch applied too late in the season will insulate the ground and delay it from going dormant. This can cause root rot once the real cold weather sets in.

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Beginner

kale

aka brassica oleracea var. sabellica

Kale is a cold-hardy and resilient green veggie.

variations

Red Russian, Lacinato, True Siberian, Vates Blue Curled, Winterbor

light

just a little

Kale only needs about 3 hours of sunlight to grow

water + feeding

keep it watered.

Kale needs consistent watering. Your kale needs about 2 inches of water a week.

toxic

okay for humans

But could cause kidney and bladder stones for dogs.

size

small-ish

Can grow between 1 – 2 ft

pro tip

sweetened by frost.

Kale can be harvested until it’s 20°F/-7°C outside. In fact, the first nips of frost can make your kale taste better.

fun fact

technically a biennia

It’s a 2-year plant that produces leaves in the first year and a flower stalk in its second year.

beyond the basics

  • companion planting

    Kale works well when planted by artichokes, beets, celery, cucumber, lettuce, onion, peas, potatoes. Avoid other brassicas being planted alongside kale. These include broccoli, kohlrabi, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, and Swiss chard.

  • Harvesting

    When your kale’s leaves are about the size of your hand, it’s ready to harvest. Be sure not to pick more than a third of your plant’s leaves at a time.

  • pest control

    What are these little white flies? They are literally Whiteflies. They drink sap and excrete a sticky ‘honeydew’ which also encourages mould. Use sticky traps or Ortho® Bug B Gon® ECO Insecticidal Soap to keep your plants healthy.

troubleshooting

have an idea?

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Beginner

elephant ear

aka colocasia esculenta

Always the centre of attention, these big beauties make a statement indoors and out. They can grow to an impressive height with leaves that mimic hearts, or the shape of elephant ears.

variations

alocasias and colocasias

light

full sun

Even dappled shade will work

water + feeding

thirsty

Keep the soil moist. In summer months you may have to water your potted plant almost every day.

toxic

toxic to people and animals

Ingesting stems or leaves can cause a burning sensation or cause swelling. In some cases touching the plant can cause a skin irritation.

location

flexible

Elephant ears do well on patios and indoors. Keep your plant in indirect light to avoid it getting sunburnt.

humidity

love it

Elephant ears are tropical plants that thrive in warm, humid environments.

size

large friend

Can grow to 3 – 5 ft

pro tip

Leave lots of room

Elephant ears need a big pot to grow to their fullest potential.

fun fact

A tropical bulb

Elephant ears have tuberous roots that are often referred to as bulbs. Unlike common garden bulbs, these ones are not cold hardy so you’ll need over-winter the bulbs inside.

beyond the basics

troubleshooting

  • why is my elephant ear turning yellow?

    Too much sunlight or overwatering. You can cut the dying leaves close to the base of the stem. This should prevent more leaves from yellowing. Then adjust your watering schedule or move it away from direct sunlight.

  • why are my leaves crying?

    Usually due to overwatering. The leaves of an elephant ear are long and heart-shaped, which naturally draws water to the tip of the leaf. If there aren’t other signs of overwatering, like soft stems or yellow leaves, you can likely hold off on watering for a few days.

  • why are my plant’s leaves turning brown?

    It’s a sunburn. Your plant is too close to bright, direct light. Elephant ears tend to thrive in bright, indirect light. Scorched leaves won’t kill your plant, it just doesn’t look pretty.

     

  • Why does my plant’s leaves have spots?

    Fungal leaf blight. If this fungus isn’t caught early, it will cause the whole leaf to collapse and travel to the rest of the plant. To prevent this, make sure you’re using high-quality, well-draining soil.

have an idea?

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Beginner

Lily

aka Lilium

lilies are an exotic and elegant perennial flower that are quite easy to grow. Lilies start as onion-like bulbs and require good soil and lots of sun to flourish.

variations

trumpet lilies, Asiatic lilies, Easter lilies, Oriental lilies

light

full sun

Your lilies will enjoy about 6 – 8 hours of sunlight but be sure to keep their roots cool.

water + feeding

thirsty

Water your lilies freely, especially if you’re not in a climate that gets much rainfall in the summer months.

toxic

yes, the whole plant

The entire plant is toxic to humans and pets. Even the water that fresh cut lilies sit in can make you and your fuzzy friends sick.

location

in the sun

A good rule of thumb is that lilies like their head in the sun and their feet in the shade. To help keep your lily’s roots cool, consider planting with low profile annuals or perennials, or ornamental grasses.

size

medium to large

Lilies can grow between 2 – 8 ft tall!

pro tip

lots at stake

Lilies can grow quite tall. Consider staking your lilies to keep them tall and upright.

fun fact

powerful native plants

Lilies are attractive to many insects because of their bright colours and sweet nectar. They can be pollinated by either the wind or bees!

beyond the basics

  • soil + potting

    Lilies love to have their roots in cool soil, and their heads in the sun. The best soil option to keep your lilies happy is a rich, moist soil. that is also well-draining. Consider adding in just a little bit of organic compost.

  • companion planting

    You can find a wide variety of companion plants from annuals, bulbs to
    other perennials. Consider using annuals such as dill, geraniums, pansies, or new guinea impatiens. Dahlias, daffodils, or irises make great companions when planting other bulbs. Perennials such as peonies, daisies and lavender are excellent companions for lilies.

  • Blooms

    Lilies only bloom once per season. You can remove, or deadhead, faded flowers to keep your plant from wasting energy making new seeds.

  • pest control

    The most common pest issues for lilies are infestations of scarlet lily beetles. These little guys like to hang out on the underside of leaves. The easiest way to get rid of these little pests is to catch them manually by holding a bottle of warm water under the leaves you’re inspecting. The bugs will be startled and drop off into the water waiting below.

troubleshooting

  • what are those oval-shaped spots on my leaves?

    Lily disease. This is a fungal infection that creates oval-shaped dark spots on your lily’s leaves. Make sure you use clean tools before you get started. Then clear out the infected soil and debris and get rid of the infected plant. Be sure to not plant lilies in an infected spot again.

  • why are the tips of my leaves turning brown?

    Could be overwatering, sunburn, or underwatering. If the tip of the leaf is brown and crunchy, this means the soil is likely too dry.

  • why are my buds rotting?

    Likely a fungus. Many fungi (Rhizoctonia, Phytophthora, Pythium, Fusarium, and Cylindrocarpon) attack the bulb and cause the roots to rot. This will also cause the plant to wilt, and eventually die. Be sure to remove the infected plants and check all bulbs carefully before planting.

  • why aren’t my lilies blooming?

    Could be the result of small bulbs or over-crowding in the soil. Planting your lily bulbs too shallow could also lead to your lily not producing big blooms. If you cut away the leaves after a lily has flowered, it may also decrease the likelihood of flowering the following year. Keep in mind, some lilies won’t flower in their first year of planting due to transplant shock.

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