AMERICAN GARDENER

Onions that store well are varieties bred or naturally suited for long-term storage after harvest. These onions typically have thick, dry outer skins and a firm, dense bulb that resists rot, mold, and sprouting. They are ideal for keeping in cool, dry, well-ventilated conditions for several months, making them perfect for winter use or for … Read more

Onions that multiply are varieties known as multiplying or perennial onions, which naturally produce clusters of bulbs instead of a single main bulb. These onions grow small offsets—sometimes called bulblets or daughter bulbs—around the parent bulb, allowing the plant to reproduce vegetatively. Over time, a single plant can create a large cluster of onions, making … Read more

Onions that make you cry are typically pungent varieties high in sulfur compounds, which are released when the onion is cut. These compounds, especially syn-Propanethial-S-oxide, become airborne and irritate the eyes, causing the stinging sensation and tearing that many people associate with chopping onions. The stronger the onion’s sulfur content, the more intense the tears. … Read more

Trees with fern-like leaves are species that have delicate, feathery foliage resembling ferns, giving them a light, airy appearance in the landscape. These leaves are often finely divided or pinnate, meaning they are arranged along a central stem, similar to how fern fronds grow. This type of foliage adds texture, movement, and elegance to gardens … Read more

Onions that don’t make you cry are varieties specifically bred to be mild and low in sulfur compounds, which are the chemicals responsible for eye irritation and tearing. When typical onions are cut, they release a gas called syn-Propanethial-S-oxide that reacts with the eyes, causing the stinging sensation. Mild onions produce less of this compound, … Read more

Vegetables with seeds are plants that produce edible parts containing visible seeds inside or attached to the flesh. In botanical terms, many foods commonly called vegetables are actually fruits because they develop from the flower of the plant and contain seeds. These seed-bearing vegetables play an important role in plant reproduction and are widely used … Read more

Shrubs that can be planted in February are typically cold-hardy varieties that tolerate cool soil and late winter conditions. In many regions, shrubs are still dormant during this time, which makes transplanting easier because the plants experience less stress. Planting in February allows roots to begin establishing before active spring growth starts. Evergreen shrubs are … Read more

Low-maintenance shrubs that can be planted in the fall are hardy varieties that take advantage of cooler temperatures and autumn rains to establish their root systems before winter. Fall planting reduces stress on the shrub because the plant is entering dormancy, and energy is directed toward root growth rather than leaf or flower production. Evergreen … Read more

Low-maintenance shrubs that can be planted in summer are hardy, drought-tolerant varieties that can handle heat and occasional dry spells. While summer planting can be challenging due to higher temperatures and stress on new roots, these shrubs are resilient and can establish well if given proper care, like consistent watering during their first few weeks. … Read more

Shrubs that can be planted in spring are varieties that benefit from warmer soil temperatures and increasing daylight. Spring planting gives shrubs a full growing season to establish roots before facing their first winter, making it one of the easiest and most successful times for new plantings. Deciduous shrubs are especially suited for spring planting … Read more