I'm trying to identify a type of tree that I remember from when I lived in upstate NY. It had needles (rather than broad leaves) which were a little longer and much "softer"-- less prickly, anyway-- than most coniferous trees I've seen/felt. Most strikingly, they would turn a gorgeous scarlet in the autumn-- the only non-broadleaf tree I've seen to do so. Has anyone out there seen these beauties?
posted by samac
on Feb 14, 2011 -
10 answers
We have motion-activated lights in our new office, and office plants that need light over the weekend. I'm looking for some kind of plug-in kinetic sculpture that we can have on a plant timer, that'll run (hopefully without being too annoying) during the day to keep the lights on.
posted by you're a kitty!
on Jan 24, 2011 -
4 answers
What are some good books about the history or evolution of different plants or animals? Overblown metaphor aside, I really liked Michael Pollan's 'The Botany of Desire' and would be interested in learning the history of other domesticated plants like roses or oranges. Or books on evolution that get into things like insects or whales.
posted by Caravantea
on Jan 9, 2011 -
24 answers
[Plant Filter] How do I care for my new dwarf conifer, a Lawson Cypress also known as "Treasure Island"? I purchased him from my local nursery two days ago, where they were selling small "living Christmas trees" as novelties. It is a very lovely little tree, and I would actually like to keep it potted inside if possible, but I'm not sure if it will be too warm for this species.
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posted by wansac
on Dec 3, 2010 -
5 answers
Our school in Salt Lake City is fundraising to build a greenhouse - what should we consider related to the actual construction/type of greenhouse?
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posted by _DB_
on Dec 1, 2010 -
5 answers
Looking for information about houseplants that will do well in an oddly well-lit, but cold and drafty basement in the Seattle area.
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posted by evilcupcakes
on Nov 11, 2010 -
7 answers
What's a good plant for a small basement home office with a small basement-style window?
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posted by swift
on Nov 11, 2010 -
14 answers
Can you identify my office plants from the photos, and give me tips for caring for them?
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posted by germdisco
on Oct 23, 2010 -
10 answers
Bought a philodendron and somehow managed to bend two of the leaves to the point of breaking them on the subway journey home. How should I handle this? Should I trim off the dead, drooping part, and if so, will it eventually fill back in to the standard leaf shape? Or is there some way to glue it so it will eventually fuse back together?
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posted by coupdefoudre
on Oct 12, 2010 -
10 answers
How to quickly mitigate a somewhat busted lawn and garden -- and maybe get a small vegetable harvest out of it?
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posted by zvs
on Sep 1, 2010 -
6 answers
Please recommend a reference book for trees and plants (flowers, etc) in the high Rocky Mountain region (specifically Utah). I would like to purchase this book online if possible.
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posted by timpanogos
on Aug 11, 2010 -
4 answers
Please help me identify the plants - flowers, weeds, veggies, herbs - in the garden of the house we just bought. There are several plants that I don't recognize, so I'd really appreciate any clues you might have!
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posted by misskaz
on Aug 7, 2010 -
18 answers
Recommendations for houseplants that are both cat-friendly and thrive in low-light.
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posted by saladin
on Jul 16, 2010 -
8 answers
What can I plant on a hot, windy roof garden? My New York City apartment boasts a private roof deck. The problem: It gets constant sun all day long, and is the tallest building around, so it can get quite windy. Nearly everything I've planted has shriveled and died. What will work?
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posted by eduke
on Jul 7, 2010 -
15 answers
Plant/Computers Filter: What's the best way to create an easily searchable digital database/library? Any program recommendations?
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posted by pulled_levers
on Jul 2, 2010 -
4 answers
IndoorGardenFilter -- What are some sweet-smelling plants or flowers I could fill my apartment with?
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posted by custard heart
on Jul 1, 2010 -
9 answers
What low maintenance plants to plant on steep sunny hillside to enhance home’s curb appeal?
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posted by mintchip
on Jun 29, 2010 -
9 answers
I am the temporary care-keeper of a Medinilla Magnifica (
here's a decent description). And it's trying to die on me - even though it has bright (but not direct sunlight), enought watering (but not to moist) and a quite humid placement. Please assist me to resuscitate it again.
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posted by Rabarberofficer
on Jun 24, 2010 -
2 answers
App Filter: I'm looking for a plant identification/database app for the ipod touch. Any suggestions?
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posted by pulled_levers
on May 30, 2010 -
2 answers
I recently went to Nags Head, NC and encountered a super fragrant bush. It had super green leaves and little yellow flowers that didn't look like flowers, but more like little berries. What was that plant?
posted by MayNicholas
on May 26, 2010 -
15 answers
What is the best online store in the US to buy aquarium fish, plants, and supplies from?
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posted by mortaddams
on May 21, 2010 -
5 answers
What are the best shade-tolerant, ultra-low-maintenance plants for my mom's terraced flowerbed?
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posted by oblique red
on May 14, 2010 -
15 answers
What can I do now if I won't have access to a real garden until August?
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posted by kro
on Apr 3, 2010 -
6 answers
Please help me diagnose this annoying plant killing problem in my garden!
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posted by dozo
on Apr 1, 2010 -
6 answers
Is there any reason not to order and grow my own heath pea plant, for my own use? Have you ever used it?
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posted by Countess Elena
on Feb 28, 2010 -
6 answers
Can you help me identify these plants that I rescued? I want to learn what will make them happier. (pics inside). Feel free to name them as well!
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posted by Raichle
on Feb 26, 2010 -
19 answers