Leaching – Flushing out any salt or chemical buildup that may have accumulated in your plants.

Larvae – Newly hatched insects, often worm like in character.

Indirect light – Sunshine that’s filtered or reflected. Almost all inddor house plants prefer indirect light; full sun can burn their leaves.

Hydroculture – The technique of growing plants in water rather than soil. Sometimes called hydroponics. Also called “Soilfree”. For more hydroponics resources, visit Hydroponics Online.

Hybrid – A cross between two or more plants of different heritages, which usually produces a more vigorous plant. Many houseplants are hybrids.

Grow-lights – Special fluorescent tubes or incandescent bulbs that emit the light rays plants need for healthy growth. Regular wide spectrum fluorescents also may be used.

Genus – A broad class of plants that have similar but not identical characteristics. A plant’s Latin name always gives its genus first. Also see species.

Fungus – Molds, mildew and other undesirable growths that can attack plants, usually under conditions that are very damp.

Force – To make a plant bloom before the season when it naturally flowers. Warm temperatures, artificial light or other factors can “fool” a plant into thinking it’s time to show off.

Iris comes in many sizes and flavors. Here’s a quick round up to help you find the best for your landscape or flower garden. Dwarf Bearded Iris Heralding the iris season in earliest spring – late April and early May in the Northeastern states are the dwarf bearded varieties. Appearance: Growing only 4 to 9 […]