Posts By

Matt Dursum

Matt Dursum is a freelance writer and gardener from Michigan. He has a BA in Geography from the University of California, Santa Barbara. His favorite horticulture endeavors are pushing plant hardiness limits in his garden in Michigan and learning about wild botanicals.

seeds in moist paper towel

Seeds

​​9 Seed Cold Stratification Mistakes: What NOT To Do

Several native annuals and perennials need to be sown directly into the soil in fall and winter. This process is called cold stratification, and it requires timing and preparation. In this article, gardening expert Matt Dursum shows you common seed cold stratification mistakes and how to avoid them.

Pink hollyhock flowers bloom brightly under the sun's warm rays.

Flowers

11 Wildflowers You Can Grow From Seed in January

Even if you live in cold places, you’ll be able to enjoy wildflowers. From colorful poppies to lupines, there are a lot of fantastic options you can plant in the snow. In this article, plant expert Matt Dursum shows you wildflowers you can grow from seed in January.

A woman uses blue pruning shears to trim a houseplant with feathery, vibrant green fronds indoors during January.

Houseplants

9 Houseplants You Should Trim Back in January

January is the perfect time for cozying up by a fire and enjoying the cold. It’s also a great month for trimming some fast-growing houseplants. In this article, plant expert Matt Dursum covers the houseplants you should trim back in January.

A woman sitting at a desk with potted plants around her, talking on the phone while using a tablet.

Seeds

11 Factors to Consider: Choosing Where to Buy Quality Seed Supplies

If you’re gearing up for spring, you’re probably wondering where to buy seed supplies. There are several things to keep in mind to get the right seeds and tools you need for planting. In this article, horticulture expert Matt Dursum shows you the factors to consider when shopping for garden seed supplies.

Close-up of a woman's hands sowing seeds in a peat seed starter tray to start seeds early for an early harvest.

Seeds

11 Benefits of Starting Seeds Early

Do you want to reap the benefits of your growing season and get a head start on your garden? In this article, gardening expert Matt Dursum shows you the benefits of starting seeds early.

A close-up shot of fragrant flowers blooms of an evergreen tree or shrub that showcases seed starting setups

Seeds

15 Evergreen Shrubs With Fragrant Flowers

Do you want to enjoy a long-lasting aromatic garden? In this article, plant expert Matt Dursum shows you the best evergreen shrubs with fragrant flowers to make your garden smell great year-round.

Close-up of young seedlings sprouting from soil in a plastic bottle used as a winter sow container.

Gardening Tips

7 Container Types You Can Use to Winter Sow

Are you ready to get your garden started after the holidays? To get your seeds started early this season, try sowing in containers this winter. In this article, gardening expert Matt Dursum shows you the various container types you can use to winter sow.