Charlotte Scott

Apple trees can be remarkably productive, but a healthy-looking tree does not necessarily mean an easy crop. Apples are affected by insects, fungal and bacterial diseases, physiological disorders, weather damage, and problems associated with roots and soil. The good news is that an apple tree does not need to experience all of these problems. Susceptibility … Read more

Bamboo is often thought of as a nearly indestructible plant. Once established, many bamboos grow vigorously and can tolerate a surprising range of conditions. However, vigorous growth does not make bamboo immune to pests and diseases. Depending on the species, climate, and growing conditions, bamboo can experience insect infestations, fungal diseases, root problems, and other … Read more

Leeks (Allium porrum) are generally dependable vegetables, but their long leaves and tightly packed stems can attract several insects and provide favorable conditions for a range of diseases. Problems may appear as tiny holes, silvery streaks, distorted leaves, yellowing, wilting, orange spots, or decay around the base. The difficult part is that several leek problems … Read more

Cane begonias are among the most rewarding begonias to grow when you want a plant that provides both attractive foliage and height. Unlike compact wax begonias, cane begonias develop upright stems that resemble bamboo canes. Their leaves can be large, asymmetrical, spotted, striped, or distinctly wing-shaped, while mature plants can produce hanging clusters of flowers. … Read more

Rex begonia is one of those plants that can make an ordinary indoor plant collection look remarkably different. Its appeal comes primarily from its foliage rather than its flowers. Leaves can combine silver, green, burgundy, purple, pink, red, and cream in patterns that resemble brushstrokes, metallic bands, spirals, or intricate mosaics. Their surfaces may also … Read more

Angel wing begonia is one of the most distinctive members of the begonia family. Its large, wing-shaped leaves, upright cane-like stems, and clusters of delicate flowers give it an appearance that is quite different from compact bedding begonias. Depending on the variety, the foliage may be green, silver-spotted, olive, bronze, or marked with contrasting veins, … Read more

Wax begonias are among the most dependable flowering plants for adding long-lasting color to gardens, containers, window boxes, and other ornamental spaces. Their compact growth, fleshy stems, glossy leaves, and clusters of colorful flowers make them easy to recognize and versatile enough for many different planting arrangements. Depending on the variety, the foliage may be … Read more

Begonias are among the most diverse and recognizable ornamental plants in the world. They are admired for their colorful flowers, unusual foliage, varied growth habits, and ability to thrive in different types of landscapes and indoor settings. Some begonias are grown mainly for their flowers, while others are prized for leaves that can display striking … Read more

Azaleas can make a garden look spectacular when they are in bloom. For a few weeks, a healthy plant can become almost completely covered with flowers, leaving little room for the foliage to be seen. Depending on the variety, the blooms may be white, pink, red, purple, orange, or combinations of several colors. Yet azaleas … Read more

Begonias are remarkably versatile flowering plants. They can brighten a shaded garden, fill containers with color, spill from hanging baskets, or provide long-lasting flowers indoors. But begonias are also plants that can punish the wrong watering habits. Give them too much water and their roots may suffer. Give them too little and their leaves can … Read more