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.

Two tree canopies with burnished orange and golden yellow leaves intersect under a blue sky.

Trees

21 Trees With Spectacular Fall Color

Do you want to add color to your autumn garden but aren’t quite sure where to start? Many deciduous trees create massive amounts of color in autumn with very little maintenance. Here, gardening expert Melissa Strauss shares 21 of her favorite trees for maximum fall color.

a tree is loaded with round, ripe, yellow fruits and green foliage in a sunny garden.

Shrubs

14 Beautiful Edible Shrubs for Your Garden

Foodscaping has gained momentum in recent years as gardeners combine ornamental plants with edibles. Here, gardening expert Melissa Strauss shares 14 beautiful edible shrubs that lay a foundation for your edible garden.

a view of a large black walnut tree looking up from the bottom displays a large canopy against the backdrop of a blue sky.

Trees

What Can You Plant Near Black Walnut Trees?

Are you struggling to keep other plants alive under the canopy of your black walnut tree? There’s a good reason for that. In this article, gardening expert Melissa Strauss explains why this occurs and what you can plant near these trees!

An arrangement of patriotic flowers in varying sizes, showcasing shades of red, white, and blue. The blooms are thoughtfully interspersed with an assortment of lush green leaves, creating a harmonious blend of colors.

Flowers

13 Container Arrangements for Labor Day

Are you looking for ideas to build a container arrangement this Labor Day Weekend? In this article, gardening expert Melissa Strauss shares some ideas for creating a stunning arrangement that will last for multiple seasons.

A sprawling garden adorned with a variety of roses in shades of pink, red, and white, creating a colorful tapestry. Towering trees stand sentinel in the background, their branches intertwining to form a natural canopy that complements the garden's serenity.

Flowers

17 Roses That Thrive on Neglect

Do you dream of an elegant rose garden but are nervous to get started? Here, gardening expert Melissa Strauss shares 17 low-maintenance roses perfect for beginners and experts alike.

A grouping of red firecracker plants, characterized by their tubular shape, dangles gracefully. These blooms hang delicately from slender, deep green stems, adding a burst of color to the surroundings.

Flowers

How to Plant, Grow, and Care for Firecracker Plants

Are you looking for a shrub or hanging plant that brings a bit of drama and a ton of color to the garden? Firecracker Plant does all of that and more! In this article, gardening expert Melissa Strauss discusses how to grow and care for this fun evergreen plant.