Bacon is a beloved breakfast staple, known for its irresistible combination of salty, smoky flavor and crisp texture. However, many home cooks are constantly on the lookout for ways to enhance its already tempting characteristics. One such method I’ve come across is dredging bacon in flour before frying. This intriguing technique promises to elevate bacon’s … Read more
By June, my coral bells are either setting up for a beautiful, colorful summer—or quietly signaling that they’re about to sulk the minute the real heat rolls in. Here in the Midwest, I’ve learned that Heuchera can look almost indestructible in spring and then suddenly collapse into crispy frustration after a week of 92-degree afternoons, … Read more
Crocosmia is one of those plants that can make a June garden look like it has suddenly decided to throw a party. Those arching stems, sword-like leaves, and hot red, orange, or scarlet flowers have a way of catching late-day light that I never get tired of, even after decades of gardening in a Midwestern … Read more
The peace lily, known for its striking white blooms and lush green leaves, is a popular houseplant that adds a touch of elegance to any indoor space. While they are relatively low-maintenance, ensuring that your peace lily continues to bloom requires a bit of attention and care, especially as the seasons change. May is a … Read more
By the time August rolls around, I start looking harder at my houseplants than my garden beds. Out here in the Midwest, the tomatoes are sprawling, the beans are climbing, and the daylilies have about had their say—but inside, my Chinese evergreens are often just entering one of their prettiest seasons. If you want those … Read more
Every August, when the heat starts to soften just a touch and the days still feel long enough to get plenty done, I make a point to look over my spider plants. In my kitchen and on the back porch, they’ve always been some of the most generous houseplants I grow. Give them the right … Read more
The mullein plant, often overlooked by many, is a botanical treasure trove of benefits. Known scientifically as Verbascum thapsus, this tall, fuzzy-leaved plant is a common sight along roadsides and in open fields. Despite its unassuming appearance, mullein has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its wide array of health benefits. Its towering … Read more
August is when Boston ferns seem to tell the truth on us. If we’ve been a little careless with watering, a little stingy with fertilizer, or a little late moving them out of harsh sun, they show every bit of it in those brown-tipped, thinning fronds. I’ve grown Boston ferns on porches, under old maple … Read more
Orchids are among the most beautiful and exotic plants, cherished for their stunning blooms and intricate patterns. However, many orchid enthusiasts find themselves frustrated when their plants refuse to flower. Understanding the unique needs of orchids is crucial to overcoming this challenge. Orchids are sensitive to their environment, and even minor deviations from their ideal … Read more
