Plant Specialists Blog — Check back often for fresh tips & inspiration — Be sure to share your favorites with friends! —

Plant Specialists Blog — Check back often for fresh tips & inspiration — Be sure to share your favorites with friends! —

Landscaping & Gardening Tips in New York City

Plant Specialists Blog

Welcome to the Plant Specialists Blog – your premier destination for expert insights on revitalizing urban landscapes into verdant, flourishing environments. From sophisticated garden designs and tailored planters to custom pergolas, we provide a wealth of tips, innovative ideas, and exclusive glimpses into our projects throughout New York City. With over 53 years of experience in greening New York, our team of horticulturists and designers shares practical tips, creative ideas, and the latest trends to help you cultivate your own green oasis. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, explore our articles to enhance your gardening journey

NEWS & MEDIA - Click here to view archives of Plant Specialists’ appearances in the News, Media and Books

Palms for Indoor Spaces

Palms bring a touch of the tropics indoors with their elegant fronds. While there are many varieties to choose from, picking the right one depends on your space and care preferences. Ready to add a tropical vibe to your home? Click to explore the best indoor palms and find your perfect match!

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Pink it is !

Add a pop of pink to your home with stunning indoor flowering plants! From long-term beauties like Anthurium that thrive in indirect light to other charming options, these plants bring vibrant blooms to your indoor space for months or even years with proper care. Click to explore the best pink indoor plants!

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Why do Needled Evergreens have that leaf shape ?

Needled evergreens evolved as some of the first tall land plants, adapting to full-sun environments with needle-like leaves for water conservation and snow shedding. These features give them a competitive edge in harsh climates. Curious about their evolution and traits? Click to learn more about these evergreen pioneers!

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TITHONIA

Tithonia, part of the daisy family, boasts vibrant, daisy-like flowers on bushy annuals, perennials, and shrubs native to Mexico and Central America. The Mexican sunflower, T. rotundifolia, is a vigorous, drought-tolerant warm-season favorite that’s easy to grow. Click to learn more about this brilliant red beauty!

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Panicum: Switch Grass

Panicum virgatum, or switch grass, is a warm-season perennial grass native to North America. This clumping prairie grass thrives from Canada to Mexico and is beloved for its adaptability and late-summer beauty. Perfect for sustainable gardens, it offers structure and charm. Click to discover its versatility!

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Agastache: Anise Hyssop

Agastache is a stunning perennial with flower spikes that bloom in shades of purple, pink, orange, and more. Native to North America, this fragrant plant attracts pollinators and thrives all season long. Learn why Agastache is a garden favorite by clicking for more details!

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How to Grow Sunflowers in NYC Gardens 

Sunflowers (Helianthus) are the epitome of summer—vibrant, heat-loving, and easy to grow. While yellow is their classic hue, varieties also bloom in stunning reds, maroons, and browns. Hardy and low-maintenance, they bring joy to every garden. Click to explore this cheerful plant!

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Edible Flowers: A Culinary Delight

Brighten up your dinner plate with edible flowers! From salads to desserts, flowers like nasturtiums and violets add color, flavor, and elegance to any dish. Want to make your meals bloom with creativity? Click to learn about the best edible flowers for your garden.

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How to Grow and Care for Crepe Myrtle Trees

Crepe myrtle is a vibrant, low-maintenance favorite in NYC rooftop gardens. With stunning blooms, exfoliating bark, and excellent drought resistance, it’s perfect for containers or privacy screens. Learn how to choose the right variety, where to plant it, and how to prune it properly with Plant Specialists.

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Should I Water During a Winter Warm Spell?

A warm winter day, over 60°F, might make you wonder—should I water my garden? The answer depends on soil dryness and other factors. Proper watering during warm spells can protect plants, but timing is key. Click for tips on winter irrigation!

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A Fungus Among Us

Root rot is a common issue for houseplant owners, causing stress and decline in plants. Learn to identify the signs, prevent overwatering, and rescue your indoor greenery before it’s too late. Click for expert advice on tackling this sneaky fungus!

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Agapanthus: Lily of the Nile

Agapanthus, with its striking lilac-blue blooms, belongs to a small genus of fleshy-rooted perennials native to southern Africa. Often called Lily of the Nile, these plants are perfect for adding elegance to borders or containers. Click to discover their allure and care tips!

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How to Make Gremolata (And Grow the Parsley Too)

Discover the magic of Gremolata, a fresh and zesty Italian sauce made with Italian flat-leaf parsley. Inspired by a dinner with friends, this flavorful recipe will have you planting your own parsley in no time. Perfect as a garnish or a burst of flavor for your dishes. Click to learn more!

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Pods: Nature’s Seed Protectors

Pods are the ultimate seed protectors, enclosing and nourishing seeds until they’re ready to sprout. Some dry out and split open, while others provide nutrients during development. Explore the fascinating world of pods, from their role in nature to their contributions to food. Click to uncover their secrets!

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The Winds: Rooftop Gardening Challenges

Windy rooftops can be tough on plants, but proper selection makes all the difference. Discover hardy plants that thrive in high winds and learn how to design a garden that withstands even the most exposed conditions. Click for expert tips on creating a resilient rooftop oasis!

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Inosculation: Nature’s Grafting Technique

Inosculation occurs when tree trunks, branches, or even roots grow together and merge. This rare natural phenomenon forms the basis for grafting techniques used in gardening. Discover the science behind inosculation and how it connects trees in fascinating ways. Click to learn more about this biological marvel!

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Ho Ho Ho: Christmas Trivia Time!

Ever wondered why red and green are the iconic Christmas colors? Thank holly plants and even Coca-Cola for the festive association! Join us for some fun holiday trivia and see how Plant Specialists brings seasonal cheer to Manhattan townhouses. Click for more festive insights!

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Lighting and Irrigation Peter Morris Lighting and Irrigation Peter Morris

Garden lighting

Transform your garden with soft, romantic lighting that enhances its beauty without being harsh or glaring. Whether it’s uplighting feature plants or creating a cozy atmosphere, thoughtful garden lighting makes a big impact. Click to discover tips for illuminating your outdoor space!

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