AMERICAN GARDENER

Ryegrass (Lolium spp.), a cool-season grass in the Poaceae family, hails from Europe, Asia, and North Africa, thriving in temperate climates (Zones 5–9). Known for rapid germination (5–10 days) and lush growth, it forms dense bunches or, in some hybrids, spreads via stolons. It’s a staple for lawns, pastures, and erosion control, with annual and … Read more

Zoysiagrass (Zoysia spp.) is a warm-season turfgrass genus native to Southeast Asia, prized for its dense, carpet-like growth via stolons and rhizomes. It thrives in USDA Zones 6–11, tolerating heat (up to 95°F), drought, and moderate shade, though it prefers full sun. Its tough, wiry blades form a resilient sod, ideal for lawns, golf courses, … Read more

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