Melanie Griffiths
Melanie has worked in homes and gardens media for two decades. Having previously served as Editor on Period Living magazine, and worked on Homes & Gardens, Gardening Etc, Real Homes, and Homebuilding & Renovating, she is now focusing on her passion for gardening as a Senior Editor at Gardening Know How.
In her spare time, Melanie loves to explore inspiring gardens and historic properties. Based in England, in a village just outside the Cotswolds, she is spoiled for choice as there are so many beautiful cottage gardens and Arts and Crafts schemes in the area.
As a keen home grower, Melanie has experimented with pretty much every type of vegetable at some point – with mixed results. Often it is the simplest things that elude you, which may explain why she just can't seem to master zucchinis.
Thankfully she has more luck with flowers, and has spent the last few years evolving her garden – adding beds and borders, and planting up too many containers.
Though she has more roses than anything else (at least 20 varieties), her favorite flowers are dahlias, and she adores the variety of colors and textures they bring to her garden.
In addition to her gardening expertise, Melanie has also studied interior design, and has a BA in English and IT.
Latest articles by Melanie Griffiths
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9 Annual Flowers That Bloom All Summer Long
This curated pick of show-stopping annuals will fill out your garden beds, containers, and hanging baskets until the end of summer.
By Amy Grant
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Monkey Orchid Care: How To Grow This Fascinating Species
The monkey orchid (Dracula simia) bears a remarkable resemblance to its namesake and, with a little know-how, can be successfully grown as a houseplant.
By Bonnie L. Grant
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"My Worst Mistake" – Gardeners Share 10 Hard-Learned Lessons
Gardeners never stop learning, and sometimes our mistakes are the best teachers. But why not save time and heartache by learning from other gardeners' failures?
By Melanie Griffiths
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26 Different Types Of Orchids – With Pictures & Information
Discover stunning orchid types to grow in your home and garden – from easy beginner varieties to rare and exotic species that are the preserve of experts.
By Melanie Griffiths
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Ghost Orchid: How To Grow This Rare & Beautiful Flower
The native ghost orchid – or Dendrophylax lindenii – is the most coveted species among home growers, but it is not for the faint-hearted. Discover how to get started growing these rare, enchanting flowers.
By Melanie Griffiths
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Orchid Buds Falling Off: How To Prevent Orchid Bud Blast
If your orchid's buds fall off before they have a chance to bloom, your plant has bud blast. Learn the common causes and how to remedy the situation so you can enjoy your orchid flowers for as long as possible.
By Melanie Griffiths
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Orchid Care: How To Grow Happy, Healthy Plants Indoors
Growing orchids as houseplants is such a rewarding hobby. Learn their unique care needs to keep plants thriving and bursting with flowers.
By Melanie Griffiths
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How To Attract Cardinals – Get Beautiful Songbirds Flocking To Your Yard
The northern cardinal is a national treasure and a delight to spot in the garden, nesting in shrubbery and flitting between feeders. Discover how to attract this beloved songbird by providing the right food, shelter, and water.
By Melanie Griffiths
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7 Trees That Will Devalue Your Home – Check Before You Plant
While many trees are prized by prospective homebuyers, others raise red flags that could derail a sale. Discover the problem trees to avoid if you're thinking about buying or selling anytime soon.
By Melanie Griffiths
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5 Biophilic Design Ideas Everyone Should Try For A Happier, Healthier Home
Connect to nature in your home, and experience the life-affirming power of plants, with these simple ideas for embracing biophilic design concepts.
By Melanie Griffiths
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14 Easter Table Decor Ideas Using Spring Flowers
Gather seasonal flowers from the garden and use them to create table settings, centerpieces, and unique decorations – for the most beautiful Easter celebration.
By Melanie Griffiths
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11 Invasive Plants You Should Never Buy At The Garden Center
They might tempt you with pretty flowers or unique foliage, but invasive plants should be treated with extreme caution. Learn the most common silent invaders to avoid when visiting the garden center.
By Amy Draiss
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7 Key Trends We’re Taking From The Philadelphia Flower Show
Showcasing dazzlingly flamboyant floral arrangements and landscaping designs, the Philadelphia Flower Show 2024 also revealed the key themes that should be on every gardener's agenda this year.
By Melanie Griffiths
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Growing Orchids In Water – The Easy Solution For Healthy Plants
Hydroponic orchid growing may prove the solution for an ailing orchid. The method is actually quite easy and fairly foolproof, requiring a few items and a little patience. Learn how to grow orchids in water with this quick tutorial.
By Bonnie L. Grant
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When Should I Start Mowing The Lawn? Experts Give The Definitive Answer For Lush, Healthy Grass
Spring is almost here, but does that mean it's time to start mowing the lawn? Industry experts explain when to spot the key signs your grass is ready – and why you should never cut it too soon.
By Melanie Griffiths
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9 Four-Season Trees That Will Steal The Show All Year Long
Every tree contributes its own unique beauty to the landscape. But if you want to make a stunning display throughout the year, choose four-season trees that will delight in every month.
By Melanie Griffiths
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10 Front Yard Plants That Will Add Value To Your Home – According To Experts
These stand-out plants will boost your home's curb appeal and make it more appealing to buyers. Invest in your front yard landscaping now, and these expert picks will be established by the time you move on.
By Melanie Griffiths
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5 Budget-Friendly Ways To Reinvigorate Garden Soil – To Grow Better, Healthier Plants
Improve and condition your soil with these clever solutions that are simple, sustainable, and cost almost nothing. You will soon reap the rewards with lush foliage, abundant flowers, and delicious crops.
By Melanie Griffiths