Posts By

Melissa Strauss

Melissa is a writer, hobby gardener, beekeeper and homemaker. She can be found working in her extensive pollinator garden, trolling the local nurseries for unique plant specimens, and tending to the many fruit-bearing plants on her property. Melissa hopes to inspire other gardeners to delve into the rich and fulfilling world of pollinator gardening.

Sunlit windowsill hosts various orchids: pink, purple, and yellow blooms adorn their branches. Delicate petals unfurl, showcasing vibrant hues. Lush green leaves complement the colorful blossoms, basking in the gentle sunlight filtering through the window.

Flowers

Why Are My Orchids Turning Black or Brown?

If your orchid leaves are changing colors, it could be nothing to worry about or signal trouble for the whole plant. In this article, gardening expert Melissa Strauss discusses some of the main causes of leaf discoloration to help you manage the damage.

A woman in a white sweater uses small sharp scissors to trim off an orchid stem with two withered blooms

Houseplants

Should You Trim Dead Orchid Flowers?

Pruning is an important part of plant care and can increase a plant’s blooming abilities. But what about orchids? Do these exotic plants need to be pruned regularly? In this article, gardening expert Melissa Strauss will explain how and when to prune your orchids to keep them looking their best.

A close-up of vibrant Bird-of-Paradise flowers with bold orange and blue petals. The distinct shape resembles a bird in flight. The blurred background showcases lush green leaves, providing a stunning contrast to the vivid blooms.

Flowers

How to Plant, Grow, and Care for Bird of Paradise Plants

If you’re looking for an exotic and flamboyant plant with a distinctive tropical appearance, the Bird-of-Paradise makes an excellent garden and house plant. Here, gardening expert Melissa Strauss shares all you need to know to grow one of these exciting plants.

Close-up of Poinsettias plants in bloom in a sunny garden. The plant boasts dark green, ovate leaves that serve as a backdrop to its distinctive feature—the bracts. The bracts are modified leaves that come in vibrant pink. These bracts surround clusters of small, inconspicuous yellow flowers at the center.

Flowers

Can Poinsettias Grow Outdoors?

Have you ever wondered if planting your poinsettias in the ground is a good idea? In this article, gardening expert Melissa Strauss discusses the best way to grow poinsettias outdoors in different climates.

Hoya kerrii leaves cascading on vines, boasting lush, heart-shaped, glossy green foliage. Each leaf is thick and fleshy, exuding a captivating charm. Supported by a sturdy black metal rod, the vines extend gracefully in their growth.

Houseplants

How to Plant, Grow, and Care for Hoya Kerrii

Hoya kerrii is a popular succulent known for its pretty, heart-shaped leaves and star-shaped flowers. In this article, gardening expert Melissa Strauss tells you all you need to know to care for one of these fun plants successfully.