Holly Crossley
The garden was always a big part of Holly's life growing up, as was the surrounding New Forest, UK, where she lived. Her appreciation for the great outdoors has only grown since then; over the years, she's been an allotment keeper, a professional gardener, and a botanical illustrator. Having worked for Gardeningetc.com for two years, Holly now regularly writes about plants and outdoor living for Homes & Gardens. In her spare time, Holly loves visiting local English gardens and is particularly fond of relaxed cottage-garden schemes. She also loves prairie-style planting – the tapestry effect of grasses mixed with drought-tolerant blooms never ceases to delight her. Always happiest around plants, when she isn't swooning over gardens, she's looking after her ever-growing collection of houseplants and arranging seasonal flowers in her apartment to paint.
Latest articles by Holly Crossley
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Deadheading mistakes – 5 errors to avoid when neatening up your flowering plants
Keep these tips in mind when removing spent blooms and you'll be rewarded with better results
By Holly Crossley Published
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Using neem oil on plants – how to tackle pests and diseases with this all-natural solution
Help your flowers, houseplants, and crops stay in top health while staying clear of chemicals
By Holly Crossley Published
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Hollyhocks care and growing guide – expert tips for these cottage garden favorites
Grow these lofty bloomers in your yard for a pretty summer display
By Holly Crossley Published
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Drought-tolerant trees – 10 resilient choices for low-maintenance yards
These reliable and robust options are ideal for warmer climes with less rainfall
By Holly Crossley Published
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Patio shade ideas – 11 stylish ways to stay cool this summer
Escape the heat when relaxing outdoors with these stunning looks
By Holly Crossley Published
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How to heat a pool without a heater – 5 clever ways to keep the water warm
Swim in comfort while keeping costs down with this insider advice
By Holly Crossley Published
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Why is my pool turning green? – expert tips on tackling algae for a fresher and safer swim
Enjoy crystal clear water that's free of green goo with this insider info
By Holly Crossley Published
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How to protect container plants from hot weather – 5 ways to help patio displays survive a heatwave
Blazing sunshine and excessive heat won't be a problem for your potted plants with these simple tips
By Holly Crossley Published
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Drought-tolerant plants for pots – 10 easy-care choices for stunning summer containers
Create a gorgeous patio display that won't need constant watering in the heat
By Holly Crossley Published
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Composting mistakes – 6 errors to avoid for a successful result
Avoid these common errors when making this valuable garden material for your pots, borders, and more
By Holly Crossley Published
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Patio planting mistakes – 6 errors to avoid for a gorgeous display in your outdoor living space
These are the mistakes to steer clear of when adding flowers and foliage to your patio – whether you're planting them in pots or in the ground
By Holly Crossley Published
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Front yard privacy ideas – 10 stylish ways to screen your home from the street
Block prying eyes while upping curb appeal with these inspiring looks
By Holly Crossley Published
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Wildlife garden mistakes – 5 errors to avoid when creating a backyard haven for birds, butterflies, and more
Keep visiting wildlife happy and healthy in your outdoor space
By Holly Crossley Published
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Watering hydrangeas – expert tips on how and when to hydrate these backyard shrubs
Whether you're growing them in pots or borders, keep your hydrangeas flourishing with these expert tips
By Holly Crossley Published
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How to grow dahlias in pots – expert tips on planting, watering, and more
Fill your patio with dahlias in containers – a beautiful way to brighten the space this summer
By Holly Crossley Published
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Painted patio ideas – 11 colorful and creative ways to update your outdoor living space
From the paving to the walls, give your patio a makeover with these inspirational and budget-friendly looks
By Holly Crossley Published
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Support your local wildlife with a bee watering station – they're quick and easy to make
This simple guide explains how to provide a safe water source for visiting bees
By Holly Crossley Published
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Privacy trees to grow in pots – 8 pretty choices for screening your yard from view
These trees may be on the smaller side, but they can be an effective way to make your patio or deck feel more private – and they look beautiful, too
By Holly Crossley Published
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Create more patio privacy with a planter box with trellis – it’s a quick, easy, and stylish solution
Grow a chic botanical screen in your outdoor living space by adding a trellis to your container display
By Holly Crossley Published
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Flowers for pots in full sun – 10 cheerful choices that will stand up to the heat
Add a splash of color to your patio or deck with these beautiful blooms
By Holly Crossley Published
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How to grow hostas in pots – container tips for these shade-loving foliage plants
With their luscious foliage, hostas are an easy-care choice for your patio pots
By Holly Crossley Published
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Hot tub deck ideas – 10 stylish surroundings for your backyard spa
Create a relaxing space on your deck with these tips
By Holly Crossley Published
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How to grow peonies in pots – top tips for beautiful container displays
Although they do best when planted in the ground, it's possible to grow these perennials as part of your container display
By Holly Crossley Published
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Backyard wedding ideas – 19 ways to celebrate your big day alfresco
Curate a memorable, magical day in your own outdoor space with these expert tips
By Holly Crossley Published