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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Easy Garden Winners: 8 Of The Best Low-Maintenance Plants For Your Garden
The easiest plants to grow are often some of the most stunning in color, texture and fragrance. Here are some of the best low-maintenance plants for beds and borders
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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6 Fruit Seeds You Should Save And Plant To Grow Your Own Tree
Grow an orchard in your yard for free with these fruit trees easily propagated from harvested seed. All you need is some potting mix and patience.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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8 Flower Seeds To Harvest In September – To Grow An Endless Supply Of Blooms
Collect these popular flower seeds and fill your garden beds and pots with glorious new blooms, without spending a penny.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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DIY Potting Mix Masterclass: Make Your Own Peat-Free Blends For Plants
Looking to make more of natural potting mix ingredients and boost your peat-free options? Our DIY potting mix masterclass can help you create potting mediums for different plants
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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How Much Humidity Do Orchids Need To Thrive? – Plus Tips To Boost Moisture Levels
Learn how much humidity your orchids need and easy techniques to increase moisture levels for happy and healthy plants with more vibrant blooms.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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8 Stunning Shrubs For Front Yards To Add Instant Curb Appeal
Discover the perfect front yard shrubs that will frame your home and create an inviting, lush entrance.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Why Butterflies Matter For Our Gardens, Well-being, And Biodiversity
Beautiful butterflies are good for our gardens!
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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7 Cactus Dahlia Varieties And Semi-Cactus Dahlia Types To Try
While some dahlias have soft petals or pompon heads, others have dramatic spikes! We round up seven outstanding cactus dahlia varieties and semi-cactus types to grow
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Should You Water Orchids With Ice Cubes? Discover The Pros And Cons Of This Controversial Method
Curious about watering orchids with ice cubes? Learn the benefits and drawbacks of this popular method to keep your plants healthy and thriving.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Can You Grow Apples From Pips? How To Plant Apple Seeds That Can Flourish
Knowing how to plant apple seeds can be a fun project that has the potential to lead to exciting future fruits. Find out a free way to grow your own homegrown apple trees
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Elevate Your Garden With The Rule Of Three: A Pro Landscaping Trick For Stunning Designs
Create a more professional look in your garden by using the Rule of Three in beds, borders, and pots to create a natural space that keeps the eye interested.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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10 Destructive Rose Pests To Look Out For – Plus Natural Treatments For An Organic Garden
Beware these common rose pests and learn about natural ways to control them without harming the biodiversity of your garden.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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22 Plants To Propagate From Cuttings In August – And How To Ensure They Thrive
Discover the top plants to take semi-ripe or softwood cuttings from in August, and grow your garden for free with these easy-to-propagate favorites.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Native Alternatives To Invasive Plants: 8 Safe Garden Beauties
These beautiful native alternatives to invasive plants not only look better than non-native species but are better for your local ecosystem, too!
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Create A Vibrant Wildlife Oasis With These 6 Native Flowering Shrubs For Pollinators
Growing native flowering shrubs for pollinators gives your garden added wildlife appeal as well as multi-seasonal visual interest. Try these stunning sustainable shrubs for bees and butterflies
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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The Benefits Of Pinching Herbs: Why It Matters And How To Do It Right
Frequently pinching herbs back encourages a healthier, bushier growing habit. It doesn't work for every type of herb, but most will benefit from it.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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Don’t Trim These Plants Before Fall: 7 Plants You Should Not Prune In Summer
High summer is synonymous with deadheads and straggly growth, so it’s tempting to reach for the cutters. But here are the plants you should not prune in summer – and why
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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The Best Wood For Raised Garden Beds: Selecting The Right One For Your Gardening Project
The best wood for raised garden beds varies in terms of durability and availability, but most importantly, it needs to be untreated. Learn about the best ones to use.
By Mary Ellen Ellis