Mary Ellen Ellis
Mary Ellen Ellis is an amateur gardener and freelance writer who lives in the Detroit area. She has degrees in Chemistry and Biochemistry and is a former high school science teacher. She has been gardening for more than 20 years and writing professionally for 15. Mary Ellen is the proud owner of only a few houseplants because she has cats who cannot stop chewing on them. Because of this she has developed a hobby growing terrarium plants that cats can’t reach.
Latest articles by Mary Ellen Ellis
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Winterizing Raised Beds: How To Protect Your Raised Bed Gardens In Winter
Keeping raised beds protected in winter will ensure that you can hit the ground running in spring. Our guide to winterizing raised beds will help you get ready
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Easy Plant Choices To Boost Your Curb Appeal: Go Big With These 6 Small Front Garden Ideas
Even the smallest front yard can be a curbside showstopper with the right plant choices. We reveal six small front garden ideas that dynamically improve a home’s allure and value!
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Why Green Spaces Are Important – And How To Create One In Your Local Community
If you live in a town or city and don’t have a big yard, look beyond your back door. We explore why green spaces are important – and how to make more of yours
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Get Gardening For Better Sleep: Why Gardens And Plants Can Give You Happier Bedtimes
We all know gardening is intrinsically linked to a ‘feel good’ factor – have you ever wondered why it helps with rest? Here’s the thinking behind gardening for better sleep…
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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8 Best Fruit Trees To Plant As Bare Roots In Fall – For The Fastest, Sweetest Harvest
Get a head start on home harvests by planting bare-root fruit trees this fall. Find the best varieties and learn tips for planting and caring for new trees.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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5 Urban Garden Ideas For Any Home – Add Natural Flair To The Tiniest Living Spaces
Just because you live in a city, town or built-up area doesn’t mean you have to do without! Try these urban garden ideas to make a green haven even in limited space
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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8 Plants You Need To Winterize In Fall: Protect Perennials Now Or Risk Losing Them To Frost
Take action to protect these popular plant groups in the fall before temperatures plummet – and they will return healthy and strong in spring.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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How To Compost At Home: The Ultimate Step-By-Step Guide
Composting is an affordable, sustainable solution for creating the best possible soil improver. Discover your ideal method, steps for success, and how to get the most out of your homemade black gold.
By Melanie Griffiths
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How To Overwinter Boston Fern Plants: Keep Sword Ferns Well Cared For In Winter Months
Boston ferns are some of our most enduring plants – but make sure you’re giving them the best care in cold months. Here’s how to overwinter Boston fern plants
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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How Long Do Mums Last? Plus, How To Make Chrysanthemum Flowers Last Longer
Chrysanthemums have the potential for enduring displays as we enter the quieter months of the year. But how long do mums last? Here’s how to maximize your fall blooms
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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7 Plants You Should Never Prune In Fall: Don't Trim These Perennials Until Spring
Discover popular shrubs and trees that must not be pruned until spring, to ensure healthy plants with maximum flowers, and support local wildlife.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Is Plastic Harming Wildlife In Your Yard? Identify Plastic Issues And Keep Garden Visitors Safe
If we’re wondering whether plastic is harming wildlife, it’s a good idea to take a look at your yard and garden and learn about some safer plastic alternatives.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Fall Container Veggies: 8 Best Fall Container Garden Vegetables To Grow
Growing vegetables in pots is an activity we focus on more in spring, but there is no reason to stop in autumn! Here are eight fall container garden vegetables you can try
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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6 Fall Lawn Care Tasks To Prioritize Before Winter – Plus When To Make The Last Cut
Use our guide to prepare your lawn for its winter slumber, and it will awaken in spring with lush, verdant grass you can be proud of.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Recharge Your Soil Over Winter By Cover Cropping: 6 Green Manures To Plant In Fall
Cover cropping is not just for farming. Use this tried-and-tested technique in your vegetable garden or flower beds to enjoy richer, looser soil and fewer weeds.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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What Is A Florist Hydrangea? – Plus, Why You Shouldn’t Plant Them In Your Garden
They may look gorgeous, but is it worth your while trying to grow a florist hydrangea? While lovely in short-term displays, here’s why you should think carefully before you take one on
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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8 Plants You Should Prune In October – Don't Miss The Fall Trimming Window
Prune these plants before the frost hits to avoid pests and diseases, and to ensure healthy growth and abundant blooms next year.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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October To-Do List: Essential Gardening Jobs To Do This Month
Your October gardening to-do list is here! These are the top tasks to complete this month in every region across the US.
By Mary Ellen Ellis