
Holly Crossley
The garden was always a big part of Holly's life growing up. 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 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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How to kit out a greenhouse – experts share clever tips and tricks for making the most of your growing space
Maximize your growing endeavours with heating, water, and multi-level surfaces
By Holly Crossley Published
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All the gardening pros we spoke to agree, using cream of tartar to control pests and clean tools is not as crazy as it sounds
This pantry ingredient can help with a range of yardcare tasks, without you needing to buy anything new
By Holly Crossley Published
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It may be very tempting, but is it ever ok to pick flowers from someone else's yard? Experts discuss the reasons to refrain
Swiping a few stems without permission could land you in trouble
By Holly Crossley Published
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How to propagate perennial sunflowers – experts share tips for dividing plants and sowing seeds
Increase your stock of these summer bloomers with this simple guide
By Holly Crossley Published
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Ground covers to attract hummingbirds – switch out boring bare soil for these 5 wildlife magnets
Make your garden a haven for hummingbirds with these nectar-rich picks
By Holly Crossley Published
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Plants to make a poolside smell nice – 5 expert-approved options to elevate your space
Gardening experts share five fragrant picks – plus growing tips to keep them thriving
By Holly Crossley Published
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DIY deer deterrents – 3 simple, budget-friendly, and expert-approved ways to keep these creatures away from your yard
From scare tactics made out of recycled goods to homemade sprays, these methods are easy to try at home
By Holly Crossley Published
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How to protect soft fruits from birds, pests and other wildlife – 3 expert-approved ways to keep your crops safe, and what to avoid
From physical barriers to companion planting, these tips are well worth a try
By Holly Crossley Published
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How to grow coral bells in pots – an expert shares top tips for a fabulous container display
Brighten a shady patio or windowsill with coral bells, a perennial that's well-loved for its vibrant foliage and delicate blooms
By Holly Crossley Published
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Garden features that could decrease the value of your home – property experts highlight 5 to steer clear of
An extensive kids' play area or DIY pond may seem like a good idea now, but it could put potential buyers off in the future
By Holly Crossley Published
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Where to pick your own bouquet in the USA – 15 locations that offer a fabulous floral experience
Make treasured memories this summer by visiting a flower farm
By Holly Crossley Published
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How to propagate ivy in water – 3 simple steps for more low-maintenance trailing plants, both indoors and out
Ivy is easy to look after and well-suited for planting up high
By Holly Crossley Last updated
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Underrated hedge plants – 7 lesser-known picks from plant professionals that deserve a spot in your yard
From spring-flowering varieties to glossy evergreens, these hedge plants may be slightly less traditional, but they shouldn't be overlooked
By Holly Crossley Published
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5 plants never to grow if you don't want to attract squirrels to your yard – and what to grow instead, according to the experts
Despite looking cute, squirrels can be a nuisance in backyards – particularly if you're growing certain types of plants
By Holly Crossley Published
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Gardeners urged to choose the right type of garden netting – to avoid harming local wildlife and damaging crops
Netting is a go-to way to protect vegetables and fruit from pests, as long as you use the right sort
By Holly Crossley Published
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How to attract orioles to your yard – 4 expert suggestions on what food to provide to welcome these vibrant creatures
You may want to switch traditional seed feeders for sweeter treats to encourage these winged visitors
By Holly Crossley Published
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Where to never use coffee grounds in the garden – to keep your backyard plants performing at their best
While it may seem like an eco-friendly way to boost your garden, applying coffee grounds directly to certain plants can do more harm than good
By Holly Crossley Published
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My hummingbird feeder has black mold – what do I do? Experts share simple fixes, plus how to prevent it from happening again
Keep visiting feathered friends happy and healthy with these tips
By Holly Crossley Published
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What’s eating my zinnias at night? A number of pests could be to blame – here's 4 ways to stop them immediately, according to the experts
Protect your blooming summer beauties from slugs, earwigs, and more with these simple methods
By Holly Crossley Published
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What to grow with dahlias – 5 suggestions for a beautiful and thriving display, including fragrant herbs and pollinator-friendly flowers
Combine dahlias with these expert recommendations for a stunning summer garden
By Holly Crossley Published
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How to protect your lawn in a heatwave – experts highlight key steps for keeping grass healthy in high temperatures, plus 3 things never to do
From how to prepare to what to avoid once hot weather hits, here's all the essentials you need to know
By Holly Crossley Published
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What never to grow with dahlias – 5 types of plants that can hinder their performance if kept too close
Some plants don't make good neighbors to dahlias – here's what the experts recommend steering clear of
By Holly Crossley Published
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Modern front yard landscaping ideas – 13 chic and stylish looks for contemporary homes
Embrace clean lines, bold planting, and stylish focal points for serious curb appeal
By Holly Crossley Last updated
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To protect your home from wildfires, non-combustible fences are a must – and these materials, experts say, will achieve both form and function
With new backyard fire safety regulations under development in California, wooden fences will need a rethink
By Holly Crossley Published