Why do some apples have more than one colour?

For years, it seemed like the goal of every major home overhaul was to tear down as many walls as possible—new builds exalted the open floor plan. But as was the case with so many other home design trends, the pandemic changed our perspectives. Our homes became our offices and schools, and we suddenly remembered the value of walls.

Why Is My Venus Flytrap Turning Black?

Kitchen islands are notoriously sparse spaces because they are often used as extra workspace in the kitchen for prepping meals. Plus, with just a few inches of elbow room on either side of the island top and bottom, it may often be difficult to decorate this smaller space.

There is a reason that fall brings on what’s affectionately known as «sweater weather.» This is the perfect season for layering, after all—and turns out, layering is designers' favorite styling trick to get things warm and toasty at home.

Interior design trends come and go—two-toned kitchen cabinets? As of now, out. Incorporating natural elements? As always, in. But, there's one decorating movement that’s ridden the trend wave for years (and years) now, and we want an answer to its ultimate trendiness: farmhouse design.  After a decade of shiplap walls and barn doors saturating the interior design world, the question remains: is farmhouse still in style? Or, should you set down the distressed wood and try another trend? We asked two design experts for their thoughts. 

It’s officially peak guest season and if you’re like us, you’d want your entryway to look swoon-worthy from the minute guests step in. Whatever the occasion may be—whether a Thanksgiving dinner, a Christmas party, or a book club gathering—nothing beats a well-designed entrance that leaves a lasting impression. 

If you like chillies – and you have enough sun to grow them in – they are a brilliant choice for containers and small spaces. In this post you can find out why I find them so good, my three favourite varieties (the choice of variety makes a big difference), and three wonderful sauces / pickles to make with your harvests. I’d love to learn about your favourite chilli varieties and homemade chilli sauces in the comments below.

Why Is My Ficus Dropping Leaves?

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Dana Gallagher

The humble apple tree is one of the highlights of autumn in the garden. Twisting a ripe fruit away from a branch on a misty morning, surrounded by the faded glory of the summer flowers in your garden still gamely hanging on, is a beautiful moment. Apples are perhaps the most complex of garden fruits, with a mouthwatering array of flavours and textures that can be enjoyed if you grow your own.

Opal fruits, Constantinople and Cat Stevens all famously changed their names to the now familiar Starburst, Istanbul and Yusuf but spent years still being referred to by their former moniker. Which was a little confusing to say the least. And we now find ourselves in the same situation in horticulture. Plants which we’ve known under a certain name for generations are suddenly being changed. The botanical language we as gardeners share is shifting. If you go into a nursery today in pursuit of a rosemary, what you actually need to ask for is a salvia! I’ve not lost my mind. This name change is among a plethora of changing titles for the plants we all know and love. What was formerly known as Rosemarinus officinalis (AKA rosemary) is now Salvia rosemarinifolia. I know!