Amy Draiss
Amy Draiss, serving as the Digital Community Manager at Gardening Know How since 2021, is responsible for building and maintaining connections within our online community. Her knack for gardening has seamlessly translated into a digital green thumb, allowing her to educate and inspire thousands of gardeners daily on social media.
Amy's journey into the green world began with her hands-on experience in the family landscaping business. She later transitioned into the role of manager at a retail garden center in Northeast Ohio, where she cultivated her knowledge of plants, gardening supplies, and customer relations. Her knack for social media management soon blossomed, allowing her to connect with fellow gardeners and share her wisdom on a wider scale.
Still living in the Midwest, Amy has honed her gardening skills under the challenging conditions of the region. Her two-acre property enables her to cultivate a raised vegetable garden and enjoy a wide range of trees, shrubs and perennials, including a couple of her favorites: hydrangeas and Japanese maples. Fun fact – her deep love for hydrangeas has earned her the title of the Hydrangea Queen here at Gardening Know How.Since joining the team, Amy has assisted in various marketing campaigns, manages email communications, publishes daily on social media and is the voice and author behind many of the team’s YouTube videos, covering a multitude of topics, with a special emphasis on her favorite subject—hydrangeas.During her free time, she enjoys spending quality moments with her family and devoted canine companion, as well as indulging in her love for travel, theme parks, and, of course, gardening.Amy's mission is to offer advice and inspiration for all plant enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting to sow your first seeds, Amy's expertise and genuine passion will help your garden flourish.
Latest articles by Amy Draiss
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10 Snake Plant Varieties To Elevate Your Indoor Plant Collection
Don’t let the name fool you - snake plants are friendly, beautiful, and easy to grow. Here are 10 of my favorites you may not have heard of.
By Bonnie L. Grant
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Common Christmas Cactus Diseases: How To Identify, Treat, And Save Your Plant
Learn how to spot, treat, and prevent the most common Christmas cactus diseases to keep your plant healthy and flowering.
By Bonnie L. Grant
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Are Poinsettias Poisonous To Dogs? What You Need To Know To Keep Your Pooch Safe
You may adore their richly hued tones and textures, but are poinsettias poisonous to dogs? Don’t leave it to chance – we reveal how risky they are, and how to keep pets safe
By Amy Grant
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Post-Holiday Plant Clinic: Solve These Common Issues To Keep Seasonal Favorites Thriving For Years
Don't toss your holiday plants! Learn expert tips to fix common issues, from shedding poinsettias to leaning amaryllis, and keep plants going year after year.
By Melanie Griffiths
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Why Is My Christmas Cactus Turning Purple? And How To Make It Green Again
If your Christmas cactus leaves are purple or red instead of green, it's telling you that something isn't quite right. Learn the possible causes and solutions.
By Teo Spengler
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Christmas Cactus Buds Falling Off: 8 Reasons For Bud Drop And How To Fix It
Nothing frustrates growers more than bud drop. But a few simple changes will have you on your way to a fully blooming Christmas cactus in time for the holidays.
By Tonya Barnett
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Christmas Cactus Care Guide: Grow A Thriving Schlumbergera With Abundant Blooms
A flowering Christmas cactus is a sight to behold over the holiday season. Learn the plant's care requirements and it will reward you with a glorious display.
By Melanie Griffiths
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Christmas Cactus Fertilizer Guide: How And When To Feed Plants For Better Blooms
Encouraging a Christmas cactus to flower is a lot easier if plants are fertilized properly. Learn the species' feeding needs and enjoy generous holiday blooms.
By Bonnie L. Grant
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Try These 7 Small Flower Bed Ideas For Big Blooms In Compact Corners
Looking for easy wins in your flower beds in the year ahead? Make room for these gorgeous small flower bed ideas – and you’ll see big results in the smallest spaces
By Tonya Barnett
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How To Make A Christmas Cactus Bloom – And Then Bloom Again For Double The Flowers
The ever-popular Christmas cactus needs a little encouragement to produce stunning tropical blooms over the holiday season, especially if you want them twice.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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How Often To Water Poinsettias For Lush, Lovely Plants The Whole Holiday Season
Poinsettias are made to last, and yours can too if you know the secret. Here's how to keep your thirsty plant drinking well after Christmas.
By Teo Spengler
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Christmas Cactus Soil Guide: Choose The Best Potting Mix To Help Your Schlumbergera Thrive
The perfect Christmas cactus soil mix will keep this festive favorite thriving. Learn how to create a well-draining, nutrient-rich potting medium.
By Tonya Barnett
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12 Most-Wanted Holiday Gifts: Gardening Know How's Staff Picks For 2024
Browse gift ideas recommended by the Gardening Know How team – from tried-and-tested gems to products we're coveting for our own wish lists.
By Melanie Griffiths
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Christmas Cactus Watering Guide: How Often To Water Plants For Better Blooms
Discover how often to water a Christmas cactus, how much, and how to avoid under and overwatering for healthy plants that flower reliably over the holidays.
By Bonnie L. Grant
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9 Host & Hostess Gift Ideas That Are So Much Better Than A Boring Bottle Of Wine
Toast your holiday host with a gift they’ll love! Explore an expert-approved list of plant-themed presents that mean so much more than a boring bottle of wine.
By Laura Walters
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Christmas Cactus Vs Thanksgiving Cactus: The Different Types Of Holiday Cactus Explained
Learn how to identify Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Easter cactus plants, and understand their slightly different care needs.
By Melanie Griffiths
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Bee Cups For Thirsty Pollinators
Have you heard about Bee Cups? They're the sustainable, woman-owned business dedicated to saving the bees, one sip at a time.
By Caroline Bloomfield
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Preparing Your Garden For Winter: 9 Vital Tasks For Stronger Plants And An Easy Start In Spring
These essential fall tasks will help your garden endure winter’s challenges, and enable you to get a headstart on the next growing season.
By Melanie Griffiths