Latest articles by Thomas Rutter
-
I'm a professional gardener, and this 1 natural ingredient is essential to help Japanese maples thrive in summer – and will give you vibrant fall color, too
Mulching Japanese maples in summer might seem like a small deal, but it will make a big difference to plant health
-
How to grow clove trees in pots – for a mosquito-repelling evergreen plant that your patio needs
Clove trees are a natural way to deter pests from outside spaces
-
Patio plants that thrive on neglect – these 5 easy-going flowers for pots love to be ignored, say gardening pros
These fuss-free plants are sure to elevate your patio and entertaining space
-
Best pittosporum companion plants – 5 expert recommendations for impactful borders alongside these tough, reliable evergreens
Fill your yard with colorful perennials and shrubs alongside these hardy trees
-
How to grow coral honeysuckle – for a fuss-free flowering vine that hummingbirds can’t resist
Growing coral honeysuckle is an easy way to fill walls and fences with colorful blooms
-
5 small trees that thrive on neglect – expert picks of beautiful, small-space species you can blissfully ignore
These easy-going trees are perfect for urban yards where space is at a premium
-
It’s not too late to plant pumpkins in Illinois – garden experts reveal the June veg window for hardiness zones 5 and 6
If you live in Illinois or anywhere in USDA zones 5 and 6, June is a great time to add pumpkins to your kitchen garden
-
How to grow epimedium – for a pretty and low-maintenance flowering plant that thrives in shady yards
Epimediums can be used to illuminate dark, shady borders
-
How to grow ixora in pots – for a low-maintenance flowering patio plant that can handle summer heat
Growing this tough shrub in pots is a great idea if you have a compact yard
-
How to fertilize passion flowers – an expert grower reveals the secrets to caring for these hungry climbing plants
Feeding your passion flowers at the right time will give them a boost
-
Best roses for small spaces – 5 brilliant blooms for pots or narrow borders that will transform compact gardens
From balconies or patios, these best roses for small spaces will add color and perfume to any yard
-
Is it necessary to deadhead crepe myrtle flowers? Expert advice for healthy flowering trees and shrubs
While it won't result in repeat blooming, deadheading crepe myrtle flowers will keep your shrubs looking their best
-
5 nasturtium varieties I’m growing right now as a professional gardener – you can still sow these fast-growing flowers in June for late-summer color
These five nasturtium varieties are sure to add impact to your flower displays
-
Where to grow catmint – experts reveal the best locations to maximize fragrant, colorful blooms in your yard
Catmint is a spectacular perennial, but planting it in the wrong place can limit its floral display
-
Evergreen shrubs that thrive on neglect – 5 expert plant picks that give year-round impact even when ignored
These fuss-free evergreen shrubs will provide greenery in all seasons
-
How to grow foamflower – for a resilient and pretty flowering perennial that will illuminate shady gardens
Foamflowers can bring color to the dark corners of the yard
-
How to grow periwinkle – for a shade-tolerant and sprawling ground cover plant
Shade-loving periwinkle plants are perfect for filling troublesome spots under trees and shrubs
-
5 shrubs that thrive on neglect – expert recommendations for low-maintenance, fuss-free plants
These easy-going shrubs are perfect for both beginner and master gardeners
-
How to grow eastern redbuds – the cherished native tree with striking spring blooms
Adaptable and reliable, eastern redbuds are tough trees that will not disappoint
-
When and where to spot hummingbirds in May – these miniature birds are once again on the move across North America
From the Gulf Coast to the Great Lakes, here's when and where to expect hummingbirds in your region
-
Skyseed is a vigorous invasive weed that is becoming a problem in backyards – here's how to identify and control it
Gardeners in North America should keep an eye out for this vigorous perennial weed
-
How to grow wisteria in pots – for an easy-to-grow climber that will produce masses of fragrant, colorful blooms
Growing climbers in pots is a great option if you have a compact outside space
-
Best ground cover plants for wet soil – experts recommend these 5 options for soggy, damp yards
Cover challenging borders in your yard with these spectacular low-growing species
-
How to grow swamp azalea – for an easy-going flowering shrub that thrives in shady and damp yards
This North American shrub produces masses of fragrant blooms and will add impact to any yard
