After the prey has been trapped, the Venus fly trap will secrete an enzyme that literally dissolves the insect into an easily digestible meal. It will take several days for the plant to complete the digestive process. But, as soon as it does, the traps will open once again and wait for it’s next meal to come along.

Given the proper care, Venus fly traps are fairly easy to grow. They need a very bright light, but can’t survive in hot, direct sunlight. Because they need a warm temperature, high humidity and…

It’s a slow growing plant, so if you want one of any substantial size, it’s best to just purchase it. These plants can reach just over 3 feet in height. The variegated variety generally costs about twice as much as the standard green variety. But, the white contrast on the dark green leaves might be worth paying extra for. It’s a really pretty plant that doesn’t require a lot of care.

Occasionally, the Cast Iron plant will flower when kept indoors, but this is very rare.…

Almost everyone loves the taste of fresh vegetables, but many people just don’t have the room or space for a garden. If you live in an apartment, or have a small yard, you can still have delicious fresh vegetables with container gardening. A container garden can be set up on a patio, deck, balcony, or a nice sunny window.

Just like any type of gardening, container gardening does take a little planning. You need to choose the types of plants you want to grow based on the amount of light the area has. If you have an open deck, choose plants…

It’s always a good idea to carefully inspect your plants from time to time. As with any other pest, the quicker you start treating your plants for aphids, the better you chances are of saving the plant. Aphids can spread really fast and if one plant is infected they can end up on all of your other plants as well. Aphids literally suck all of the nutrients out of the plant, but they also spread plant viruses that are deadly to the plant.

There are some simple…

Ferns can also be planted outdoors as part of yard landscaping. While a fern can add a lot to its surroundings, it is a good idea to learn how to properly care for them. You will want to maintain the beauty that drew you to them in the first place. You will want to know the right type of soil and water needed, as well as where exactly the fern should be placed for the best use of light.

In nature, ferns thrive on forest floors with plenty of shade. The light they receive comes through higher trees, not directly hitting the fern. In a home, the fern should be placed during the summer months with northerly exposure to indirect or…

Poinsettias are tropical plants and though they are very beautiful, in their natural habitat they’re often thought of as weeds! But, especially in America, they’ve became a much loved part of the Christmas tradition for many families.

Contrary to what most people think, the brightly colored petals aren’t actual flowers, they’re bracts. The real flower is in the center of the leaf bracts. With the proper care, you can keep your Poinsettia blooming through Christmas and even keep it alive for years to come!

Keeping any plant alive depends a lot on the health of the plant when you purchase it. It’s easier to keep…

There are some simple steps that you can take to greatly decrease the chances of your plants becoming infested.

When re-using pots always be sure to clean them thoroughly with hot water and soap. And, always keep you planting tools clean as well.

Using sterile or pasteurized potting soil can also help prevent insects and diseases. Both have been treated to kill any organisms present in the soil. Remove any dead plants, leaves or flowers as soon as possible, rotting plant matter can quickly attract pests.

Provide proper drainage so that the bottom of the soil and the plants roots aren’t sitting in water.…