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.

Cape leadwort close-up

Ornamental Gardens

31 Perennial Plants for Texas Gardens

Are you thinking of adding some perennial plants to your Texas garden this season? The state of Texas is quite large and has many different microclimates to grow in. In this article, gardening expert Liessa Bowen shares her favorite perennials you can do your garden, no matter where you reside in the Lone Star state.

Abundant red and purple fuchsia blooms dangle from slender stems.

Flowers

How to Plant, Grow, and Care for Hardy Fuchsia

Are you curious about hardy fuchsia? These beautiful shrubs brighten the landscape with their immensely showy flowers in vibrant colors. In ideal conditions, they can bloom continually from late spring until fall. In this article, gardening enthusiast Liessa Bowen will discuss the proper care and maintenance of these spectacular plants

Vegetables

Cucumber Spacing: How Far Apart Should You Plant Cucumbers?

Not sure how much space your cucumbers need when planted in the garden? These popular vegetables perform best when they aren't crowded. Luckily, there are plenty of options to provide additional space. In this article, gardening expert Liessa Bowen shares exactly how much space your cucumbers need wh en planted in the garden.

Chrysanthemums Finished Blooming in Pot

Flowers

What Should I Do With My Potted Mums After They Bloom?

Did you purchase a bunch of annual mums this season, and they are slowly losing their blooms? What should you do with them when they've started to look rugged? In this article, gardening expert Liessa Bowen provides five different options you can pursue with your chrysanthemums once their blooms expire.

where blueberries grow

Fruits

Where Will Blueberries Grow Best in Your Garden?

Are you thinking of growing blueberries in your garden, but aren't sure where to plant them? Blueberries are a garden favorite, but there are definitely areas of your garden that will allow your shrubs to reach their full potential. In this article, gardening expert Liessa Bowen explains where you should be planting blueberries for the best results.

Pink blooming clematis vine is in full season with a bright pink flower

Vines

When Does Clematis Bloom? Will it Bloom All Summer?

Did you plant flowering Clematis plants last season, but aren't quite sure when to expect them to bloom? There are a few factors that go into Clematis bloom times. In this article, gardening expert Liessa Bowen looks at when you can expect your Clematis to bloom this season, and beyond.

African Violet that needs repotting growing in a small container

Plant Problems

7 Signs You Need to Repot Your African Violets

If your African Violet is struggling, you may be wondering if it's time to repot your plant. While some common issues can be solved with a proper maintenance routine, other problems are more serious and will require repotting. In this article, gardening expert Liessa Bowen looks at the most common signs your African Violet needs to be completely repotted.

Blue african violet varieties blooming in pot on countertop

Houseplants

31 Different Types of African Violet Varieties

Thinking of adding some African Violets to your garden but aren't sure which varieties to pick? There are many different types you can choose from, so picking just one can be tough! In this article, gardening expert Liessa Bowen looks at the different varieties of African Violets you can grow.

clematis varieties

Vines

Clematis Varieties: 39 Different Types of Clematis

Clematis can be a beautiful addition to just about any garden. They are easy to grow, and have massively beautiful blooms that different shades of color to any garden space. But which type of clematis should you grow? There are many different clematis varieties, and many of them can accent your garden in different ways. In this article, we take a deeper look at our favorite types of clematis cultivars to help you decide which might be best to plant this season!