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A healthy plant is happy in its environment.

Most plants have certain criteria to perform well.  We always have information in our plant descriptions that will let you know what that particular plant needs to perform well.

There are basically three things to look for when selecting a plant for a spot in your yard.  Hardiness zone rating, what kind of soil you are growing in, and will it get sun or shade.    

Pets and gardens have the reputation of being a bad mix, but it doesn’t have to be that way! Follow these dog-friendly gardening tips to keep your pet - and your plants - safe and happy.

A dog-friendly garden doesn’t have to compromise on beauty, but there are some things to consider when landscaping an area that your furry friend can access.

First, you need to consider your dog’s temperament and physical needs. Is your dog older and calm, or a high energy puppy? Do they have a history of jumping or digging? Also think about what your dog likes

Having fresh Lemons, Limes, and Oranges from your own potted plants is pretty exciting. However, in many parts of the country, your plants will have to come indoors to prevent them from being exposed to freezing temperatures.

We always get some calls this time of the year from people overwintering their Citrus trees inside. Their questions are usually because of some leaf drop and some general thinning of the foliage. Here's the right way to care for these special patio plants. 

Expert Care Tips for Your Indoor/Outdoor Citrus Trees

Gradually move your plants in late summer from full sun to a shaded location to get your plant used to lower light. When they make the trip indoors in fall, they will transition much easier.

Once they are inside, you'll want to give your plant

In today’s health conscious and Instagram-ready world, the desire to grow fresh fruit and vegetables has never been greater. We’ve seen the beautiful photos of the carefully grown crops after harvest, and we want that same benefit for ourselves, our families, friends and neighbors.

Using Size Control For More Manageable Fruit Trees

Even if you select semi-dwarf and dwarf varieties, you still need to understand that pruning is one the most important aspects of growing a fruit tree.

Commercial growers use aggressive pruning techniques to control the size of a fruit tree, which results in more trees planted per acre (and a quicker return on their investment!) Keeping the trees at lower heights also makes it safer for workers and

Watch as Ed Laivo, one of America's top fruit tree experts, tells us about a tried and true technique that is perfect for the backyard gardener.

Called "High Density Planting", or "Backyard Orchard Culture", watch as Ed explains the concept and the benefits of planting 3 partner fruit trees together in 1 hole. Benefits include easier cross-pollination and extending the season of ripe fruit.

Call us to talk about which partner fruit trees are right for your garden: 1-888-864-7663

Learn how to keep your High Density Plantings pruned for size control

Ouch! This picture shows a horrible "Crape Murder."

Please, don't use heading or topping cuts to pollard Crape Myrtles, it's just won't give you that natural look you want. You'll also avoid creating those knobby knuckles, which sadly wreck the appearance of that beautiful Crape Myrtle bark.

Instead, let's watch Ed Laivo, one of Nature Hills horticulturalists, as he gives valuable information on how to correctly prune this beautiful tree.

The Right Way to Prune a Crape Myrtle

The goal is to get air circulation and sunlight into the canopy of the tree. You also want to allow your Crape Myrtle to showcase the beautiful bark as part of its character.

In the video, you'll learn when to prune Crape Myrtles, and get a step-by-step approach to determine your pruning plan. Hint, start

The Crape Myrtle has been renowned for its wonderful long-lasting bloom, its wide range of adaptation, and its versatility as both a tree and a shrub. With the introduction of exciting new varieties, the love affair with the Crape Myrtle is sure to continue.

All Crape Myrtles sold in the United States are deciduous. They are mostly admired for their long bloom period from late spring to fall. Most also feature an outstanding fall color display of oranges, reds and yellows. This fall color varies in degrees by variety.

They are tolerant of a wide range of soils but do require good drainage. Once established, they are quite drought tolerant, good news for water-wise landscapes.