Beginner vs Collector Substrate Strategy
One of the biggest surprises in plant growing is this: The “best” potting mix depends more on the grower than the plant. Plants don’t fundamentally change between beginner and collector homes - management skill does. Substrate strategy is really about risk management.
The Real Science of Potting Media.
We take a deep dive into potting media: how each component actually behaves, why growers mix them, and when each one shines (or fails).
Think of this as a “how substrates really work” manual rather than a recipe list.
The Pros and Cons of Growing Plants in Water
Oh, the glorious images online of pristine plants growing in a clear glass vase! Swoon! Finally, a way to have aesthetics and rid yourself of fungus gnats. What a dream, huh?
But is it really all it’s cracked up to be? Or are there hidden downsides they’re not telling you about? Not all plants are built to swim ….
Blue Begonias: More Than Meets the Eye
Iridescence in Begonias is one of the charms that make these plants so beguiling - even to those who don’t collect them. We take a science-based deep dive into what causes this iridescence and how best to bring out that blue.
Navigating TPP Biosecurity Changes & Our Path Forward
There’s been a lot of panic, confusion and misinformation regarding this little pest, and how it is changing the landscape of plant collecting in Australia. Read on for everything you need to know.
The Taxonomic Conundrums Of The Hoya Genus.
Inside, we explore:
Why Hoya classifications are always evolving
How scientists split species complexes into individual species
What drives variation across this sprawling genus
Why these changes are essential for science and conservation
Growing Hoya Outside in Cool Climates
Growing Hoyas in cool climates can be daunting when all the tags say ‘keep warm’, but it is possible. So let’s take a deep dive and see what’s cool to grow outside.
Begonias & Powdery Mildew
Let’s take the panic out of powdery mildew
Sun Stress & Splash in Hoyas
Want to know the details about what causes sun stress or splashing in Hoyas? We’ve got you covered.