Posts By

Dr. Liessa Bowen

Liessa started learning everything she could about plants, animals, and ecosystems at a young age. Since then, she's earned a Master’s degree in wildlife biology (Iowa State University) and a PhD in forestry (North Carolina State University), both with an emphasis on conservation biology and birds. She has worked as a greenhouse technician, wildlife biologist, educational consultant, and writer.

Amaryllis growing in container with white flowers that has red stripes

Flowers

How to Plant, Grow and Care For Flowering Amaryllis Plants

Thinking of adding some Amaryllis to your garden but aren't sure where to start? These popular plants can bring some extra color into your indoor or outdoor garden. In this article, gardening expert Liessa Bowen examines all you need to know about Amaryllis and their care.

African Violet With Leaves That Have Turned Yellow Sitting in Sunlight

Plant Problems

7 Reasons Your African Violets Have Yellow Leaves

Does your African Violet have yellow leaves? There are a number of different factors that can contribute towards this condition. The good news is, most causes are treatable, and preventable. In this article, gardening expert Liessa Bowen walks you through what to do when you start seeing yellow leaves on your favorite houseplant.

low maintenance plants full sun

Ornamental Gardens

27 Low Maintenance Plants That Thrive in Full Sun

Looking for some low-maintenance plants that thrive in sunny conditions? There are many different sun-friendly plants to choose from, depending on your hardiness zone. In this article, gardening expert Liessa Bowen lists her favorite sun-loving plants that don't require much work from you in the garden.

Fast Producing Fruit Tree Called PawPaw

Fruits

21 Fast Producing Fruit Trees, Shrubs & Vines

Are you thinking about adding some fruit trees to your garden or fruit orchard this season? Fruit trees can take time to grow, but there are some that produce fruit faster than others. In this article, gardening expert Liessa Bowen looks at some of the fastest-growing fruit trees you can plant.

African Violet Plant with Lack of Blooms

Plant Problems

7 Reasons Your African Violets Aren’t Blooming

Are your African Violets struggling to bloom this season? There are a few common reasons that this can happen. In this article, gardening expert Liessa Bowen looks at the different issues that may prevent your African Violets from blooming to their fullest potential.

drought tolerant plants

Ornamental Gardens

45 Drought Tolerant Plants For Dry Climates

Are you looking for a hardy plant that can tolerate some drought? There are a number of different plants you can choose, depending on your hardiness zone. In this article, gardening expert Liessa Bowen looks at her favorite drought-tolerant plants for dry climates.

Native Plant to New York Blooming With Pink Flowers

Ornamental Gardens

21 Native Plants For New York Gardens

Looking for a few native plants to line the beds of your New York garden? There are many different options to choose from, depending on which part of the state you live in. In this article, gardening expert Liessa Bowen looks at some of her favorite New York native plants!

Blueberries and Strawberries from Garden

Companion Planting

Can You Grow Strawberries With Blueberries?

Thinking of growing strawberries with blueberries in your garden this season? Companion planting is a common practice but can lead to stunted crops when you pair your plants incorrectly. In this article, gardening expert Liessa Bowen looks at if blueberries and strawberries make good companion plants in the garden.

North Carolina native flower growing in garden

Gardening Inspiration

29 Native Plants For North Carolina Gardens

Live in North Carolina and need a few native plants for your garden this season? There are a number of native plants will thrive, depending on what part of the state you'll be planting them. In this article, gardening expert Liessa Bowen walks through her favorite native plants for North Carolina gardens!

Grow a peach tree on your own

Fruits

How to Plant, Grow, and Care For Peach Trees

Are you thinking of adding some peach trees to your garden this season? These popular fruit trees can grow across a wide variety of different climates. In this article, gardening expert Liessa Bowen takes you through everything you need to know about growing peach trees, including their maintenance and care.

North Carolina perennial flower garden in full sun

Flowers

21 Popular Perennials For North Carolina Gardens

Are you looking for some perennial plants to grow in your North Carolina Garden this season? With North Carolina's moderate climate, you have plenty of options to choose from! In this article, gardening expert Liessa Bowen walks through her favorite perennial plants for every North Carolina garden!