Gemma Johnstone

Tries to write, hike (with my dog), worry less, do more. Regular contributor for the AKC, Reader's Digest, and more. Based in Courmayeur, VDA, Italy. She/her

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Articles

This Low-Water Ground Cover Could Save Your Drought-Prone Yard, a Lawn Pro Says

2 weeks ago | thespruce.com | Gemma Johnstone

Most species of Myoporum grow in USDA zones 8-11. Myoporum is drought-tolerant, making it a cost-effective species to grow as a lawn alternative. Though drought-tolerant, Myoporum are susceptible to thrips when watered insufficiently. Cultivating a lush lawn takes a lot of maintenance, especially in hot, drought-prone regions. If you’re looking for a practical and pretty alternative, a myoporum ground cover could be worth considering.
This Low-Water Ground Cover Could Save Your Drought-Prone Yard, a Lawn Pro Says

2 weeks ago | yahoo.com | Gemma Johnstone

Most species of Myoporum grow in USDA zones 8-11. Myoporum is drought-tolerant, making it a cost-effective species to grow as a lawn alternative. Though drought-tolerant, Myoporum are susceptible to thrips when watered insufficiently. Cultivating a lush lawn takes a lot of maintenance, especially in hot, drought-prone regions. If you’re looking for a practical and pretty alternative, a myoporum ground cover could be worth considering.
Signs, Symptoms, Treatment

3 weeks ago | akc.org | Gemma Johnstone

poison pokeberry pokeweed Pokeweeds are attractive flowering shrubs, and their large berries provide beneficial fuel for migratory birds. However, they aren’t ideal landscaping plants. With their aggressive, weedy habit, pokeweeds can quickly take over your yard. Plus, pokeberries and dogs aren’t a good combination, especially if your pet likes to nibble on fruiting plants or dig up their roots.
15 Dahlia Companion Plants to Grow for Lasting Blooms, From Asters to Tomatoes

3 weeks ago | thespruce.com | Gemma Johnstone

Dahlia varieties, with their bright, structural, long-lasting blooms, are show-stoppers in any garden. However, introducing other plants to the beds and borders you are growing dahlias adds visual depth and textural interest. When deciding what works well as dahlia companion plants, select species that do well in the same conditions. Dahlias grow in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11 and appreciate full sun, even moisture, and well-draining soils.
15 Dahlia Companion Plants to Grow for Lasting Blooms, From Asters to Tomatoes

3 weeks ago | yahoo.com | Gemma Johnstone

Dahlia varieties, with their bright, structural, long-lasting blooms, are show-stoppers in any garden. However, introducing other plants to the beds and borders you are growing dahlias adds visual depth and textural interest. When deciding what works well as dahlia companion plants, select species that do well in the same conditions. Dahlias grow in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11 and appreciate full sun, even moisture, and well-draining soils.
5 Valuable Home Materials That Could Pose a Security Risk

3 weeks ago | familyhandyman.com | Gemma Johnstone

I've always focused on inexpensive home security additions to deter burglars from coming inside. However, with the prices of scrap metal and other valuable home materials surging in recent decades, it pays to be aware of exterior elements that can be tempting for thieves. I spoke to two crime prevention experts about the things you might not realize are attractive to steal and what measures you can take to mitigate your losses.
Meet AKC National Agility Championship Competitor 'Shazam!'

4 weeks ago | akc.org | Gemma Johnstone

rat terrier national agility championship Speaking with Robia Pautler and her 17-year-old daughter, Emma, from Pearland, Texas, is a heart-warming reminder of the life-changing power of the human-animal bond. Their 3-year-old, red, white, and sable Rat Terrier, “Shazam!,” is a light in the life of the whole family. Now, he’s also taking the agility and AKC Fast CAT world by storm.
Is it Too Early to Plant Geraniums? What Gardeners Recommend for Better Blooms

1 month ago | thespruce.com | Gemma Johnstone

Geraniums are popular summer-blooming bedding, hanging baskets, and container plants that provide a bright pop of color and a sweet scent in your yard. However, you must get the planting timing right to make the most of these tender annuals. If you're wondering when to plant geraniums, spring is usually the best time. Read on to learn why. Meet the ExpertManjot Sidhu is the Assistant Professor of Horticulture and Ornamental Horticulture Specialist at the University of Maine Cooperative Extension.
12 Astilbe Companion Plants to Grow for a Healthier Shade Garden This Season

1 month ago | thespruce.com | Gemma Johnstone

Astilbes are the perfect low-maintenance perennial plants for shady areas in your garden—their ferny foliage adds texture, and their feathery flowering plumes provide a soft splash of color from late spring and through the summer in woodland-style landscapes. Coming in various heights, you can select a size that works well with the other species you want to introduce in your planting scheme. But what should those other plants be?
12 Geranium Companion Plants to Grow for a Healthier Garden, From Cosmos to Garlic

1 month ago | thespruce.com | Gemma Johnstone

Annual geraniums (Pelargonium hybrids), with their wide-ranging sizes and growth habits, are popular and pretty flowering plants for the sunny spots in your yard. Most commonly grown as annuals, these drought-tolerant plants can grow as perennials in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 12. But what are the best geranium companion plants? We’ve pulled together this list to help you fill your hanging baskets, container planting, and summer flower beds with the right combinations. Want more gardening tips?