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Dr. Amanda Owen

Hi there! I'm Dr. Amanda Owen, and I'm thrilled to be a part of the Planting and Seeding community. My journey with plants began over two decades ago, and it's been an incredible adventure ever since. Growing up in a small countryside village, I was surrounded by lush gardens and sprawling fields. My grandmother, a passionate gardener herself, was my first mentor. She taught me the basics of planting, nurturing, and the sheer joy that comes from watching something grow. Those childhood days spent in her garden ignited a lifelong passion within me.

Growing Flax Flowers: Uses and Growing Tips

Growing Flax Flowers: Uses and Growing Tips

Flax flowers are a beautiful addition to any garden, and they’re also incredibly versatile. You can use them to make everything from linen to biofuel, and they’re also a great source of nutrients. Here are a few tips for growing flax flowers:

* Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
* Sow seeds in early spring or late summer.
* Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart.
* Water regularly, especially during dry spells.
* Harvest flowers when they’re fully open.

Flax flowers are a beautiful and rewarding crop to grow. So why not give them a try this year?

Brown Blueberry Leaves: Causes and Solutions

Brown Blueberry Leaves: Causes and Solutions

Brown blueberry leaves can be a sign of a problem, but don’t despair. There are many possible causes, and with a little detective work, you can usually find the solution. In this article, we’ll explore the most common causes of brown blueberry leaves, and we’ll offer some tips on how to solve each problem.

Training a Monstera Deliciosa: Tips for Success

Training a Monstera Deliciosa: Tips for Success

Train your Monstera Deliciosa for a lush, full look

With a little patience and attention, you can train your Monstera Deliciosa to climb a trellis or moss pole, creating a stunning focal point in your home.

Here are a few tips for success:

* Choose a sturdy trellis or moss pole that is the right size for your plant.
* Start training your Monstera Deliciosa when it is young and flexible.
* Use soft, flexible ties to attach the stems to the trellis.
* Water your Monstera Deliciosa regularly and provide it with bright, indirect light.

With a little TLC, your Monstera Deliciosa will reward you with lush, green foliage and a beautiful, cascading shape.

Dog-Friendly Shrubs: Safe and Beautiful Choices

Dog-Friendly Shrubs: Safe and Beautiful Choices

Dog-Friendly Shrubs: Safe and Beautiful Choices

Looking for dog-friendly shrubs to add to your yard? Here are a few of our favorites, all of which are safe for your furry friend to eat or play around.

* [Boxwood](https://www.thespruce.com/boxwood-shrubs-5188537)
* [Crabapple](https://www.thespruce.com/crabapple-shrubs-5188539)
* [Flowering quince](https://www.thespruce.com/flowering-quince-shrubs-5188538)
* [Holly](https://www.thespruce.com/holly-shrubs-5188536)
* [Rosemary](https://www.thespruce.com/rosemary-shrubs-5188540)

Privacy Please: Fast-Growing Shrubs for Seclusion

Privacy Please: Fast-Growing Shrubs for Seclusion

Privacy Please: Fast-Growing Shrubs for Seclusion

Looking for a quick way to add privacy to your yard? Consider planting fast-growing shrubs. These versatile plants can provide year-round screening and can be tailored to fit any size space. With so many varieties to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect shrubs to suit your needs.

Gopher Plant 101: Growing and Pest Control

Gopher Plant 101: Growing and Pest Control

Gopher Plant 101: Growing and Pest Control

Gopher plants are beautiful, drought-tolerant succulents that are perfect for adding a splash of color to your garden. Learn how to grow and care for gopher plants, and how to control pests like gophers and rabbits.

The Birds of Paradise: Growing and Maintenance Guide

The Birds of Paradise: Growing and Maintenance Guide

The Birds of Paradise: Growing and Maintenance Guide

With their vibrant colors and unique blooms, birds of paradise are a popular addition to any garden. But these plants can be challenging to grow, so it’s important to know what you’re getting into before you bring one home.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about growing and maintaining birds of paradise, from choosing the right variety to providing the right care. So whether you’re a seasoned gardener or you’re just starting out, read on for all the information you need to grow these beautiful flowers.

Trim or Not to Trim Arborvitae Shrubs?

Trim or Not to Trim Arborvitae Shrubs?

Arborvitae Shrubs: Trim or Not to Trim?

Arborvitae shrubs are a popular choice for landscaping, but not everyone knows whether or not they should be trimmed. Learn the pros and cons of trimming arborvitae shrubs to make the best decision for your yard.

Pine Tree Companions: Shrubs That Thrive

Pine Tree Companions: Shrubs That Thrive

Pine Tree Companions: Shrubs That Thrive

Pine trees are a staple of the forest, but they can also be a great addition to your home landscape. Here are some shrubs that thrive in the company of pines:

* Rhododendron
* Azaleas
* Mountain laurel
* Viburnum
* Hollies

Wildflowers in Mixed Seed Packets: What to Expect

Wildflowers in Mixed Seed Packets: What to Expect

Wildflowers in Mixed Seed Packets: What to Expect

When you open a mixed seed packet, you can expect to find a variety of wildflowers, including native and non-native species. The exact mix of plants will vary depending on the brand of seed and the region where it was produced. However, you can generally expect to find a mix of flowers that bloom in different seasons, so you can enjoy a colorful display of blooms all year long.