People are thinking outside the box when it comes to gardening and biodiversity. We recently heard about a smart idea out of Norway: they’re actually combining snow with wildflower seeds and spreading it over hillsides. Imagine, literally planting flowers with snow! We’re buzzing about how this cool concept could transform dormant ski hills into vibrant […]
This week’s listener question is a timely one from Karen who is growing an iconic seasonal beauty – the Poinsettia! We totally get it—these plants are the quintessential holiday vibe, but they can be a little dramatic especially if you want to have one until next Christmas. We’re sharing all the secrets to Poinsettia success, […]
Ever walked into a space—like an office or a cozy community center—and just felt instantly better? Sure, the colour of the walls and orientation of the furniture influences the overall vibe, but chances are, plants are a big component too! We’re on the road this week seeing how The Core in downtown Calgary to explore […]
If your home is filled with trailing Hoya vines? Well, researchers have just announced the discovery of an entirely new Hoya species—Hoya dawodiensis—hidden away in the remote corners of India. It’s a powerful reminder that our planet still holds incredible secrets, and that every houseplant favourite has a wild origin story. For years, Hoya (often […]
We received a beautiful question on the podcast this week from a listener whose daughter is getting married next summer (congrats!) and is planning on making 12 floral centrepieces: “My daughter is getting married next summer and I’m creating 12 centrepieces and looking for some ‘how to’. I bought some wooden buckets and thought about […]
Ever feel like you’re fighting for your patch of green? Imagine your city is doing an amazing thing by planting half a million trees but your already bountiful yard is chosen for one of these trees?! Should you have a say? We’re digging into a wild story from Montreal where a resident is battling the city […]
It’s Diabetes Awareness Month and you may be asking, “Why are the Helpful Gardeners talking about this?” Sure, this might seem like a heavy topic, but there’s a fascinating connection! A new study came out proving how a desert berry may hold secrets to improving metabolic health. Nitraria roborowskii Kom A recent discovery (and something […]
Deck the Halls (and Leaves!): Holiday Houseplant Decorating The holiday season is officially upon us, and while we all love sparkling trees and twinkling lights, who says the festive cheer has to stop at your traditional fir? We’re big fans of bringing nature indoors, and what better way to celebrate than by giving our beloved […]
What if we could grow tomatoes in Death Valley? Your garden wilts in a heatwave, but this tiny plant thrives! We’re diving into a desert survivor that actually grows faster when temperatures soar above 49°C. Could this plants genes unlock potential for previously harsh growing conditions? First, to Everest Speaking of extremes, have you heard […]
Did you know that goats are great weeders? If you’ve been to Calgary, AB, you may have seen Nose Hill Park host a herd of fluffy, four-legged lawnmowers tackle the weeds here annually. Plus, their digestive systems are champions at limiting the spread of harmful weeds in our natural areas! Let’s dive in on today’s […]










