Plants

Tangerines are classified under Citrus reticulata in the Rutaceae family, a subset of mandarins distinguished by their loose, easy-to-peel skin. Hybrids like tangelos (C. reticulata × C. paradisi) and tangors (C. reticulata × C. sinensis) expand the group, blending traits with oranges or grapefruit. Botanically fruits, they’re prized for their juicy, segmented flesh and aromatic … Read more

Squash belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family, genus Cucurbita, with key species like C. pepo (zucchini, acorn), C. maxima (hubbard, buttercup), and C. moschata (butternut, calabaza). Botanically a fruit due to seed-bearing flesh, it’s classified into summer (soft-skinned) and winter (hard-rinded) types. Native to the Americas, it was domesticated over 10,000 years ago, primarily in Mesoamerica, … Read more

Beans come in a wide array of shapes, sizes, and colors, each with unique flavors and textures that define their culinary roles. Some are small and round, others large and flat, with coats ranging from glossy to speckled. They’re grown globally, adapting to climates from cool hills to arid plains, and harvested fresh or dried … Read more

Greenhouses are enclosed structures designed to grow plants year-round, shielding them from harsh weather, pests, and seasonal shifts. They trap sunlight and heat, creating a controlled microclimate that extends growing seasons or supports exotic species. From small backyard setups to vast commercial complexes, they vary widely in purpose and scale. Their frameworks range from simple … Read more

Vegetable plant damage zaps the investment of time and money you make in your garden. Whether due to a mistake on your part or environmental factors, the potential damage to the garden ranges from decreased production to total destruction of your vegetable crop. By understanding the threats to your vegetable garden, you are able to … Read more

Lawn grasses are the backbone of green spaces, chosen for their ability to form a durable, attractive turf tailored to climate and use. They fall into two main groups: those thriving in cooler seasons and others excelling in warm weather, each with distinct growth peaks and dormancy patterns. Their adaptability makes them essential for everything … Read more

Centipedegrass (Eremochloa ophiuroides), a warm-season grass native to Southeast Asia, is valued for its low-maintenance nature and ability to form a dense, light green turf via stolons. Introduced to the U.S. in 1916, it thrives in the Southeast on acidic soils (pH 5.0–6.0) at 75°F to 90°F, earning the nickname “lazy man’s grass.” While only … Read more

Kentucky Bluegrass is a cool-season grass prized for its lush, dark green turf that thrives in northern climates. It grows most actively in spring and fall at 60°F to 75°F, forming a dense sod through underground runners. Its ability to recover from wear makes it a staple for lawns and sports fields. The grass features … Read more

Cool-season grasses thrive in milder climates, growing most actively in spring and fall when temperatures range between 60°F and 75°F. They stay green through cooler months, even surviving light frosts, but often slow down or go semi-dormant in summer heat. These grasses are common in northern regions or higher altitudes where winters are cold but … Read more

Warm-season grasses flourish in hot, sunny climates, hitting their stride when temperatures climb above 75°F. They’re built for summer growth, spreading through runners or clumps, and often go dormant in cooler months, turning brown until warmth returns. Their resilience suits them to southern regions or areas with long, dry spells. These grasses vary in texture … Read more