Alison Pudsey

Thunder Bay

Freelance Writer at Daily Hive

Writer and Journalist at Freelance

Contributor at Daily Hive

writer, bookworm, daydreamer, plant lover & all things gardening • content writer for @BackyardBoss

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Articles

How to Grow and Care For Hot, Potted Habanero Peppers

1 week ago | backyardboss.net | Alison Cooper |Alison Pudsey

Habaneros love warm temperatures, so you may want to start seedlings early indoors. The peppers will be ready to harvest and eat in 100 to 120 days, so it won't take you long to learn how to grow peppers. Harvest ripe habanero peppers when they are 2 to 3 inches, bright orange, red, or yellow. Whether you are short on growing space or simply looking for convenience, container gardening is a practical way to expand your garden and grow various plants in pots or containers.
Tree of Heaven: Invasive Plant Smells Like Rancid Peanut Butter

1 month ago | backyardboss.net | Alison Cooper |Alison Pudsey

The tree of heaven is highly invasive due to heavy seed production, aggressive roots, and its rapid growth habit. Identifying features include large leaves, textured bark, and dense clusters of winged seeds. Removal involves pruning, applying systemic herbicide, and ensuring timely treatment to prevent regrowth. The tree of heaven (ailanthus altissima) is a deciduous tree that originates from China and Taiwan.
How to Muck Out Your Water Features and Ponds For Spring

1 month ago | backyardboss.net | Alison Cooper |Alison Pudsey

Regular deep cleaning improves water quality and extends equipment's lifespan. Removing muck enhances visual appeal and prevents damage to water features. Use proper tools, like pond vacuums, to clean water gardens effectively. Whether you have a backyard pond, a decorative fountain, or a cascading waterfall, water features transform outdoor spaces into a tranquil and serene environment.
How to Shop for Cheap Costco Plants Using 5 Expert Tips

1 month ago | backyardboss.net | Alison Cooper |Alison Pudsey

Celebrate Knockout Roses This May
Flower Baskets: The Garden Tradition You Should Try This Spring

1 month ago | backyardboss.net | Alison Cooper |Alison Pudsey

The tradition of floral hanging baskets dates back centuries and continues in cities today. Growing plants in baskets is aesthetically pleasing, maximizes space, and simplifies care. Utilize flowers, leafy greens, fruits, and vegetables for beautiful baskets this spring.
5 Flowers That Require Staking in Early Spring

2 months ago | backyardboss.net | Alison Cooper |Alison Pudsey

Staking flowers like peonies, hyacinths, daffodils, dahlias, and sweet peas in early spring promotes healthy, upright growth. Proper staking prevents leggy growth, damage from high winds, and helps flowers like peonies produce large blooms. Stake flowers with support structures like peony rings, bamboo stakes, tomato cages, and tall trellises based on their growth habits.
5 DIY Easter Centerpiece Ideas that Feature Spring Blooms

2 months ago | backyardboss.net | Alison Cooper |Alison Pudsey

The traditional Easter bunny centerpiece uses bunnies and eggs to capture the spirit of spring. Carrot bouquet centerpieces combine fresh carrots and flowers for a fun, creative look. A colorful Easter egg centerpiece keeps it simple, using painted eggs as decor, giving off nostalgic vibes. Looking for unique centerpiece ideas for Easter?
Edible Flowers: Healthy and Delicious Chive Blossoms

2 months ago | backyardboss.net | Alison Cooper |Alison Pudsey

Chive flowers are edible, with varying shades of purple, and even attract beneficial pollinators. Chive blossoms have a mild onion-garlic taste, perfect for infused vinegar, herb butter, salads, and garnishes. Harvest chive blooms when fresh, with vibrant colors, using sharp shears. You can store the flowers in the fridge for up to a week.
Gardening for Better Sleep: How Gardening Improves Sleep Quality

2 months ago | backyardboss.net | Alison Cooper |Alison Pudsey

Gardening leads to better sleep quality and longer sleep durations, reducing common sleep complaints. Spending time outdoors in a garden improves mental health, reduces stress, and increases exposure to sunlight. Popular plants like lavender, jasmine, and chamomile can enhance sleep quality and create a tranquil bedtime space. Sleep is a fundamental part of your physical and mental health.
Artificial Sunlight for Plants: How it Works, Best Grow Light Options, and More

Mar 24, 2025 | backyardboss.net | Alison Cooper |Alison Pudsey

Grow lights provide year-round, customizable lighting for plants, enhancing growth and faster output. Advantages of artificial sunlight include controlled growing conditions, tailored lighting, and energy-efficient output. Consider initial costs, energy consumption, space requirements, and maintenance when using artificial light sources. All plants need sunlight to not only survive but thrive.