Saying thank you can feel like a big undertaking. Maybe a mentor has helped you blossom in your career or a friend lent you some extra support in a time of need. In any case, giving thank you flowers can be a meaningful way to let someone know that you feel grateful for them. 

Beautiful, vivacious, and always a treat, flowers brighten any space and make the perfect gift for many occasions. And beyond romance and condolence, a bouquet perfectly expresses gratitude. Flowers have been used to communicate across cultures for hundreds of years. 

When you want to let someone know you’re thankful for them, there are some types of flowers that are more appropriate. And what better way to share love and compassion than with a bit of nature’s most beautiful art pieces! So when you’re picking out a bouquet, consider featuring some of these flowers to say thank you.
<h2>Floriography - The Language of Flowers</h2>
Giving flowers has been a tradition for centuries. Records of gifts of flowers pop up in Greek and Roman mythology to ancient China, Japan, and Egypt. During the Victorian age, giving flowers became wildly popular. Even more interesting is that each culture seemed to use flowers to convey emotion. In a way, they adopted an entirely new language using flowers! 

Communicating feelings through the gift of flowers is called floriography. In Victorian times, this language was taken very seriously as it was otherwise not acceptable to express strong emotions. Thankfully, direct communication and emotional IQ are more celebrated in contemporary times, but it’s still fun to communicate specific feelings through the gift of flowers. And what better way to express gratitude than a beautiful bouquet of thank you flowers!

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="960"]<img src="https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2018/05/27/15/33/garden-3433714_960_720.jpg" alt="Garden, Red Roses, Yellow Roses" width="960" height="640" /> Yellow roses make great 'Thank you' flowers. [Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/edmondlafoto-7913128/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">edmondlafoto</a> on Pixabay][/caption]
<h2>Roses</h2>
With a heavy history around romance, you might be initially inclined to steer away from giving roses as a thank you gift. But think outside the box of the single red rose clenched between a tango dancer's teeth. Because roses have become the horticultural superstars with thousands of hybrids, they come in all sorts of sizes and colors, and they can be perfectly suited to fit your gratitude bouquet’s needs.

If you want to get deep into the meanings, it’s only the red and purple roses that hold connotations of love. Take, for example, a yellow rose. Symbolizing friendship and joy, yellow roses are the perfect gift for your friend who goes above-and-beyond or the one who always hosts. Additionally, peach and pink roses can show admiration for someone (not necessarily in the romantic sense), and they can add more pops of color to a thank you bouquet.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="960"]<img src="https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2017/02/04/16/57/flowers-2037783_960_720.jpg" alt="Flowers, Gerbera, Floral, Spring, Bloom, Daisy, Color" width="960" height="640" /> Gerbera Daisies. [Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/anestiev-2736923/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Christo Anestev</a> from Pixabay][/caption]
<h2>Daisies</h2>
A member of the Aster family, along with sunflowers, daisies make a delightful thank you flower. With the combination of ray petals and disc petals, daisies channel sunny vibes. Plus, they can be found in all different shades from yellows and reds to purples and pinks. Always cheerful, a bouquet of daisies keeps with energy light and playful. What better way to thank someone who brought joy into your life!

For cut bouquets, <a href="https://www.floraqueen.com/gerberas-flowers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Gerbera</a> daisies are a popular choice both for their beauty and for their resilience. Once cut, they can last upwards of two weeks! For extra meaning, give daisies to someone who has inspired perseverance in your own life, as you can be sure the bright flowers will stay with them for a while.

Fun Fact: Unlike other flowers, Gerbera daisies continue to convert carbon dioxide into oxygen during the night. Many people place bouquets by their beds to support healthy sleeping.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="937"]<img src="https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2016/09/01/08/56/hydrangea-1635541_960_720.jpg" alt="Hydrangea" width="937" height="720" /> Hydrangeas. [Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/pixel2013-2364555/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">S. Hermann &amp; F. Richter]</a>[/caption]
<h2>Hydrangeas</h2>
The pom-poms of the flower world, hydrangeas are a great choice for a thank you bouquet. With four delicate petals, each individual flower is rather minimalist. 

But when grouped by the hundred in the larger inflorescences, hydrangeas become floral fireworks. Additionally, the flowers sport a pleasant aroma, making them a multisensory home run!

With a long history dating back to early Japanese emperors, the floriography of hydrangeas runs deep. Holding the meaning of gratitude and honesty, they make a perfect way to give your sincere thanks to show someone how much they mean to you.
<h2>Lilies of the Valley</h2>
[caption id="attachment_1883106" align="alignnone" width="1920"]<img class="wp-image-1883106 size-full" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/lilies-of-the-valley-4240031_1920.jpg" alt="thank you flowers; lily of the valley" width="1920" height="1280" /> Lily of the Valley. [Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/Mareefe-2090044/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=4240031" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Marina Pershina]</a>[/caption]Fun Fact: The alkalinity of the soil affects the color of the flower. For example, a lower pH (more acidic soil) will create a bluer flower while a higher pH (more basic) will produce a pinker bloom.
<h2>Lilies</h2>
Another multisensory masterpiece, lilies are ethereal in shape and their delectable scent turn any bouquet up a notch on the spectacular scale. Their grandeur does inspire a sense of sincerity, making lilies a great choice for expressing deep gratitude. Additionally, lilies show up with <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/whats-so-special-about-the-lily-flower/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">powerful symbolism</a> in many different cultures.

Depending on the color, lilies can convey different meanings. Use the chart below to help deduce which lilies to include in your thank you bouquet.
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Lily Color/Type        </td>
<td>Meaning</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>White</td>
<td>Modesty</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Orange</td>
<td>Passion</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Yellow</td>
<td>Gaiety</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Lily of the Valley</td>
<td>Pure Heart</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tiger Lily</td>
<td>Mercy and Compassion</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="960"]<img src="https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2017/07/30/13/26/flowers-2554334_960_720.jpg" alt="Orchid Flowers" width="960" height="640" /> Orchid blooms. [Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/jjekafluf-3442840/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Janyka Mitchell]</a>[/caption]Fun Fact: Some cultures forage species of lily have as a food source because the bulb is rich in starch.
<h2>Orchids</h2>
Orchids. The queens of the plant world. Across this plant family, the flowers master balancing the combination of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolutionary-history-orchid/">unique shapes and colors</a> with a simple beauty that feels nothing if not luxurious. 

One theory behind their popularity is that orchid flowers have bilateral symmetry similar to the human face. So flower-lovers (who isn’t one?) have a natural affinity for these plants that remind us of ourselves. 

Beyond their refinement and reminiscence, orchids make great thank you flowers because of their versatility. They both look amazing in a bouquet, but they can also stand alone as a potted plant. 

Paired with their long leaves, they add a modernist feel and serve as a powerful statement piece. And (bonus!) the blooms last for several weeks!

Fun Fact: Many species of orchid are masters of mimicry. The blooms will actually look like the pollinator they hope to attract to trick the insect into visiting the flower.

Whether you choose to give a single bloom or a mixed bouquet, flowers will always help communicate gratitude. There's no better way to express how much someone means to you than with a glorious bunch of thank you flowers.

-----

Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.

Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.

-----

Most Popular Thank You Flowers

Saying thank you can feel like a big undertaking. Maybe...

Aloe vera is a succulent that is a popular treatment for various skin conditions, <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/sunscreen-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">particularly sunburns</a>. In addition, people use aloe vera to treat acne. This practice shows some great promise.
<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23336746" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Studies have found</a> that aloe vera is effective in combination with more conventional acne medications. This was shown to be more effective than acne medicine alone.
However, the jury is still out for aloe vera alone. While some studies show real benefits, others are far less clear. However, aloe vera has a long history of use. It is safe to try and could provide benefits to some people.
<h2>What is Aloe Vera?</h2>
<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/how-to-use-the-aloe-vera-plant/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Aloe vera</a> is a succulent plant in the genus Aloe. It is native to the African continent but is grown around the world. Aloe is <a href="https://www.earth.com/image-category/10-best-plants-for-indoor-air-quality/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">popular as a houseplant</a> but is also grown for cosmetic products.
It is a hardy plant that is fairly easy to grow. It needs very little water and likes well-draining soil, high in coarse sand and perlite.
Though aloe plants can be grown in many climates, freezing temperatures will kill them. If it drops below freezing, make sure your aloe plant is inside!
<img class="alignnone wp-image-1877524 size-full" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/plant-3481430_1280.jpg" alt="Aloe vera for acne" width="1280" height="853" />
Aloe vera has very attractive flowers that grow from a central stem. Though it can be hard to make an Aloe flower, it is very worth it when they do! Aloe plants are most likely to bloom during the summer.
<h3>What’s in Aloe?</h3>
Aloe gel contains many different biologically relevant chemicals. Some of these have well-established benefits and effects. Others are less understood and require more study.
Here is a list of some <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2763764/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">of the most studied components of aloe vera</a>:
<ul>
<li>Vitamins and Minerals: Aloe vera contains many vitamins which are essential to normal cell function and health. These include vitamins A, C, E, B12, and folic acid. In addition, it contains the minerals calcium, chromium, copper, selenium, magnesium, manganese, potassium, sodium, and zinc.</li>
<li>Enzymes: Enzymes are <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/what-is-proteomics/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">proteins that catalyze a chemical reaction</a>. They are present in all living things. Some proteins may have unique properties and benefits. The enzyme bradykinase in aloe vera is responsible for some of its anti-inflammatory properties.</li>
<li>Anthraquinones: These are compounds produced by the aloe plant with biological activity. Their role in aloe’s effects is not entirely known. They have various effects including acting as laxatives.</li>
<li>Plant Steroids: <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2763764/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Aloe contains cholesterol, campesterol, β-sisosterol, and lupeol</a>. These compounds are anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and reduce pain.</li>
<li>Plant Hormones: Aloe contains auxins and gibberellins. These are plant hormones that can also help heal wounds.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Is Aloe Vera Safe?</h2>
Aloe vera has been used for thousands of years for a number of conditions. However, as with any product, natural or artificial, you should be careful when trying this product for the first time.
<h3>Skin products</h3>
It is unlikely that Aloe vera poses any risks when used topically. However, a study of aloe vera leaf gel eaten by rats showed carcinogenic effects. As a result, many Aloe vera products carry California’s Prop. 65 cancer warning.
The general consensus is that Aloe vera products are safe to use on the skin (topically). Though there is mixed evidence on the effectiveness of these products, topical aloe is safe. However, consuming Aloe vera products by mouth may pose a risk and is not recommended.
Some people may be allergic to aloe vera. Testing a small amount of any skin product is wise. An allergic reaction could cause a rash and uncomfortable itching. Raw unprocessed aloe products may be more likely to cause negative reactions.
If you experience an adverse reaction to aloe products, immediately stop using them! Seek help from a medical professional. Though aloe vera is a natural product, it can still be harmful. If you have underlying skin or allergy conditions, make sure to check with your medical team before using aloe vera. If you are uncertain about aloe vera, talk to a dermatologist or other healthcare professional.
<h3>Laxatives</h3>
People also use aloe vera as a laxative. The latex of the aloe plant contains laxative compounds. The latex can be found just below the skin of the plant. Conversely, the leaf gel from inside the aloe leaves is used to treat skin conditions.
The FDA has removed Aloe latex-based laxatives from the US market. This was due to <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12001972" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">companies failing to provide safety information</a> and the general misbranding of these products. The safety of Aloe as a laxative remains unclear.
<h2>How to Use Aloe Vera For Acne</h2>
[caption id="attachment_1877525" align="alignnone" width="1280"]<img class="wp-image-1877525 size-full" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/aloe-2163120_1280.jpg" alt="aloe vera for acne" width="1280" height="853" /> Aloe vera leaves are filled with a gel-like substance that can be used as a cosmetic for many purposes including treating acne.[/caption]
Some studies have shown promise using aloe vera for acne. This is likely due to aloe vera’s <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4557234/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">antibacterial</a>, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14987320" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">anti-inflammatory</a>, <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/profile/M_Qadir/publication/233818204_Medicinal_and_cosmetological_importance_of_Aloe_vera/links/02e7e526e1457f2af9000000.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">and immune system support</a> effects. However, few studies have been conducted testing Aloe vera’s direct impacts on acne.
Aloe may provide benefits for acne and high-profile examples appear to support this. However, more research is needed to know how effective aloe is for acne. Aloe is a safe option that may help mild cases of acne by reducing inflammation and slowing bacterial growth.
<h3>Apply Aloe to Affected Area</h3>
Before using any Aloe product, test a small amount on your skin to ensure you aren’t allergic. Give at least a few hours to ensure your body has time to react.
There are many products containing Aloe vera available. These topical gels and ointments come with a wide variety of ingredients. Some of these include other moisturizers, vitamins (such as vitamin E), and xanthan gum.
Some products <a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-18008/lidocaine-aloe-vera-topical/details" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">may even contain lidocaine</a>, a local anesthetic. These products treat painful burns and are not appropriate for treating acne.
You can also use fresh aloe vera leaves on the skin. You can apply the gelatinous interior of Aloe vera’s leaves directly on the skin. However, undiluted aloe vera may be too strong and can cause uncomfortable reactions. <a href="https://www.allure.com/story/aloe-vera-skin-care-products-proposition-65-california" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Diluting aloe vera to 10%</a> may help.


-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Can You Use Aloe Vera for Acne?

Aloe vera is a succulent that is a popular treatment...

Lemongrass,Plant,Or,Cymbopogon,Citratus,Is,A,Plant,Whose,Leaves

The last time you were at a barbeque or outdoor function did you get eaten alive by mosquitos? If not, there were probably repellants of some kind. Repellants for <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/why-are-there-gmo-mosquitos/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">mosquitos</a> can take many forms. Some are chemical, like bug sprays, Tiki Torches, and ‘foggers.’ Others can be all-natural - like the mosquito plant. What is the mosquito plant? It’s a natural alternative to other bug repellants that we’ll look at in more detail!
<h2>What is the Mosquito Plant?</h2>
The mosquito plant - also known as citronella - really refers to a whole host of different plants. Plants that are most commonly called ‘citronella’ or ‘mosquito plants’ are typical of the genus Cymbopogon. This is a genus of plants that is also known as lemongrass. The species Cymbopogon citratus and Cymbopogon schoenanthus are oftentimes marketed as lemongrass in home improvement and garden stores. 

To add to the confusion, the ‘species’ Pelargonium citrosum (in quotes here because it is not a valid scientific name), is also often sold as the ‘mosquito plant.’ 

P. citrosum actually belongs to the family Geraniaceae, also commonly known as geraniums. The family that true lemon grasses belong to is Poaceae, commonly known as the grass family. 

Mosquito plants (those of Poaceae) are native to Africa, Asia, and Australia, and thus are used to living in both hot and dry climates. They have blades ranging from 1-10 centimeters (.5-4 in) and can grow in height up to 3 meters (10 ft). Plant communities that are dominated by grasses make up almost <a href="https://www.britannica.com/plant/Poaceae/Distribution-and-abundance" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">25% of earth’s vegetation</a>!
<h2><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1877472" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/citronella-leaves-1446289_1280-1024x899.jpg" alt="mosquito plant citronella" width="1024" height="899" /></h2>
<h2>Uses of Mosquito Plants</h2>
Mosquito plants have many uses beyond just acting as a mosquito repellent. C. citratus specifically is known for various uses <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3217679/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">around the world</a>. To be clear, these are reported uses around the world, not scientifically or medically validated and recommended uses. Some of those uses include:
<ul>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">Brazil: in most of South America, mosquito plant is typically infused to make a hot tea. It is believed to work as a diuretic, sedative, fever reducer, and to cure muscle spasms. </li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">India: on the Indian subcontinent, the plant has a wide variety of uses. In its whole form, the plant is believed to repel snakes. An essential oil, citronella, can be distilled from the plant and used to cure stomach problems. Some Indians believe that bathing in hot water steeped in the leaves may cure severe fevers and headaches.</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">United States: Laotian Hmong in the state of Minnesota use the hot water extract of the whole plant for healing wounds and bone fractures. </li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">Egypt: extract of the dried leaves is taken orally to work as an anti-spasm medication.</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">Thailand: whereas many cultures use the extract of the leaves and roots, Thai people use the entire plant as a garnish or condiment. </li>
</ul>
<h2><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1877474" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/lemongrass-3689413_1920-1024x858.jpg" alt="lemongrass" width="1024" height="858" /></h2>
<h2>How to Grow the Mosquito Plant</h2>
Just like all plants, the mosquito plant requires a certain set of conditions to grow and thrive. Let’s take a look at some of the ideal characteristic of the perfect mosquito plant growing habitat:
<ul>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">Hardiness: The USDA defines a ‘<a href="https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">hardiness scale</a>’ for what minimum temperatures a given plant can withstand. The scale runs from zone 1 at -51.1℃ to -45.6℃ (-60℉ to -50℉) to zone 13 at 15.6℃ to 21.1℃ (60℉ to 70℉). Plants that are ‘hardy’ to a lower zone are therefore considered more tolerant to colder temperatures. Mosquito plants are typically hardy to <a href="https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Cymbopogon+citratus" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">zones 10-12</a>. This means they will start to die if exposed to temperatures below freezing (0℃/32℉). In the United States, this means they will only grow on or just inland from the southern and western coasts. These plants should only be planted after the last frost of the year. </li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">Water: Lemongrasses prefer waterfall in the range of 150-300 centimeters (60-120 in), but can tolerate almost one and a half times that. For reference, Seattle receives about <a href="https://weather.com/science/weather-explainers/news/seattle-rainy-reputation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">37 inches of rain</a> and New Orleans about <a href="https://w2.weather.gov/climate/xmacis.php?wfo=lix" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">61 inches</a>.</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">Sun and Soil: Mosquito plants prefer wet soil and full sun. The historic range of the plant (Australia, Africa, etc) means that it is somewhat drought-resistant</li>
</ul>
<h2>How to Identify the Mosquito Plant</h2>
Now that we know what the mosquito plant is and also how to grow it, let’s take a look at how to identify the plant.
<ul>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">Where: You can find C. citratus and other lemongrasses in warm, semi-wet areas around the world. They thrive especially in Australia, India, Africa, and coastal South America.</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">When: It's best to harvest leaves and stems when the plant is <a href="https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Cymbopogon+citratus" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">120-240 days old</a>. This also means it will be near its full size at this point. It can be harvested every 90 days or so. If you are in an area that is growing and harvesting the mosquito plant, it may be hard to spot after a harvest.</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">Appearance: C. citratus will appear like a typical grassy plant you could find in your yard or a local park. Look for a clump of grass that grows taller than the surrounding plants. They typically will have blades between 1-10 centimeters (.5-4 in), and the plant itself typically will be 1-2 meters (3-5 feet) tall.</li>
</ul>
-----

Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.

Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.

-----

What Is the Mosquito Plant?

The last time you were at a barbeque or outdoor...

Houseplant Identification 101

It can be soothing to care for houseplants and help...

Focus,On,Red,Roses,In,A,Rose,Field

The rose flower: poets write of it, lovers smell bouquets, gardeners grow it. Arguably the most famous flower in popular culture, roses are displayed on street corners, in artwork, on clothing, and placed carefully in a vase on the kitchen table. 

The presence of roses can feel endless and abundant. But why do people love the rose flower? What’s the story behind how this flower came to mean so much to so many people? 

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1876424" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/roses-690085_1280-1024x682.jpg" alt="rose bouquet " width="1024" height="682" />
<h2>Origins</h2>
The rose is a perennial plant with over 300 species. According to Encyclopedia Britannica, less than 10 species of roses, mostly native to Asia, gave rise to an incredibly wide swath of plants that are now beloved varieties across the world. 

Rose flower plants are also native to regions of Europe, North America and the northwest corner of Africa. Scientists have even found a fossilized rose flower in the United States that is dated back to <a href="https://www.wonderopolis.org/wonder/does-every-rose-have-a-thorn" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">35 million years ago</a>. Roses hybridize easily - so easily, it can be very difficult to figure out where the species started. 

Roses are woody shrubs, with climbing and trailing varieties. As is widely documented in poetry and old sayings, rose bushes are armed with sharp thorns. 

Botanists call these thorns “prickles”. Like other prickly plants, sharp pokes can be an effective defense system against animals that might be drawn to the flowers’ <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/roses-red-violets-blue/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">bright colors</a> and strong fragrance. 

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1876426" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/woman-1031508_1280-1024x683.jpg" alt="person holding rose" width="1024" height="683" />
<h2>Cultural Significance of Roses</h2>
Over the centuries, rose flowers have become integral to different societies’ sense of beauty and botany. In India, the cosmic rose represents the strength, beauty, and wisdom of the divine mother. 

Hinduism and Buddhism philosophy views the inner shapes of the rose as a mandala, and lead down the path towards enlightenment. 

In the religion of Islam, it is said the fragrance of the rose represents the sacredness of peoples’ souls. In Catholicism, the fragrance is called the “<a href="https://www.learnreligions.com/sacred-roses-spiritual-symbolism-rose-123989" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">odor of sanctity”</a> and is often associated with angels. Roses are seen as a symbol of the Virgin Mary. 

Stretching from the southern coast of France, to the mountains of Japan, the rose is the ultimate sign of romance. Fun fact, the rose is also the<a href="https://statesymbolsusa.org/symbol-or-officially-designated-item/state-flower/rose" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> floral emblem of the United States</a>. 

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1876427" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/rose-616013_1280-1024x682.jpg" alt="orange rose" width="1024" height="682" />
<h2>The Language of Flowers</h2>
In Victorian England, roses were encoded with different meanings. They were used as ways to send messages to various people, without even a word being said. 

Unsurprisingly, red roses say “I love you.” Pink roses speak of elegance and friendship love. Yellow roses express infidelity and jealousy - often indicating the end of a relationship. Lavender roses infer mystery. The list goes on and on. 

There are also messages embedded in how many roses you send and how you send them. Floundering Valentines’ dates, be warned. You may be trying to communicate one thing, and saying quite the opposite. At least according to the Victorians. 

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1876428" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/yellow-rose-4251915_1280-1024x682.jpg" alt="yellow rose" width="1024" height="682" />
<h2>Food, Drink, and Medicine</h2>
While rose flowers are technically edible, you may want to think twice before chomping into any bouquets you’ve bought at the grocery store. Many industrially grown, vibrant and long-lasting roses are pumped full of dangerous chemicals and grown with heaps of pesticides. 

Many people don’t realize that the flower industry has huge impacts on our environment - and not in a good way. The chemicals used to grow flowers degrade the soil and air. 80% of roses today are grown in Africa and South America. A hectare of a flower farm can use up to 900 cubic meters of water per month. 

So let’s assume you are growing organic roses in your backyard or have found an organic nursery or farm in your area - munch away! You can add petals to your salads and desserts for a vibrant pop of color and romance to the dish. 

Countries like Pakistan and Afghanistan consider roses to be an important culinary plant. Rose water is often used in traditional sweets from the Middle East and North Africa like baklava, gumdrops, and Turkish delights. Rose hips are a popular addition to marmalades and even provide a little spike of Vitamin C for your diet. 

Depending on your tastebuds, you’ll find that rose can pair well with tea leaves, chocolates, cupcake frostings, and even ice cream. Really, your only limitation is your imagination when it comes to this fragrant ingredient. 

Rose flowers are also used in traditional folk medicine. In Chinese medicine, roses are used for stomach problems. Rose is also added to tea as a way to <a href="https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Rosa+chinensis" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">alleviate menstrual symptoms</a>.  Studies have shown that rose fragrance can help to keep people <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rose-fragrance-prevent-accidents/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">alert and awake. </a>

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1876429" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/rose-hip-493784_1280-1024x682.jpg" alt="rose hips" width="1024" height="682" />
<h2>Vulnerabilities</h2>
Like many plants, varieties of roses are affected by a warming planet - not to mention hoarded by the voracious desires of romancers and <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/intro-to-the-most-common-wedding-flowers/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">brides-to-be</a>. Rose flowers are also vulnerable to fungi - especially powdery mildew. Aphids and rust are also factors to look out for in your own garden.

Often, on California vineyards, growers will plant rose bushes along the edges of their fields as a way to understand any impending, invisible threats to their crops. 

Roses are vulnerable to similar diseases as grapevines, but they often show symptoms earlier. This gives farmers a warning (not unlike a canary in the coalmine for miners). Often, they then get a head start on finding a solution for their fields. 

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1876430" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/roses-4329259_1280-1024x682.jpg" alt="rose bush" width="1024" height="682" />
<h2>Lots to Love About Roses</h2>
The reasons to love and use rose flowers are as vast as the number of cultivars of roses there are in the world. Ultimately, this plant has a fairly straightforward meaning on the surface. 

However, the more you learn about rose flowers, the more you realize the depths of the cultural, culinary, and medicinal implications. This plant has undoubtedly shaped human history and society in some astounding ways. 

-----

Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.

Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.

-----

Why People Love Rose Flowers

The rose flower: poets write of it, lovers smell bouquets,...

Peace lilies are wonderful house plants for anyone. From beginners with no experience to people with enough plants to stock a nursery, peace lilies deserve a space in your home. First of all, they are one of the best indoor air cleaning plants.

<a href="https://lifehacker.com/this-graphic-shows-the-best-air-cleaning-plants-accord-1705307836" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Studies by NASA</a> have found peace lilies to remove notable amounts of benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene (an industrial solvent) from the air. The plant captures these nasty molecules in its leaf pores and sends them to its roots, where microbes change them into less harmful compounds. Peace lilies also produce more oxygen than most house plants. Breathe deep!

On a less technical side, peace lilies are hard to kill. If cared for properly, peace lilies give off striking, cream-colored flowers that last for weeks or even months. So, while it is rather easy to keep a peace lily alive, this guide will help you learn how to make it thrive. We will start from the ground and work upwards.
<h2>Where to Put the Plant</h2>
Peace lilies will tolerate most conditions other than full sun. These plants are native to the understory of thick jungles. This means they are used to filtered shade in a super moist environment. However, the sun is less intense further away from the equator, so peace lilies need some direct light in most parts of the U.S. to grow to their full potential.

The best possible place for a peace lily is a well-sealed, east-facing window in a humid area, such as a bathroom. Don't place peace lilies near a drafty window, because any air below 55°F can kill off leaves.

While your thermostat might be set at 67°F in the winter, the temperature next to a drafty, single-paned window could be much colder. This plant does best between 65°F and 80°F. If you live in an area with a climate between 60°F and 80°F for part of the year, consider putting your peace lily outside for these months.

Being jungle plants, peace lilies love moisture. The most humid places in homes tend to be the bathrooms and the kitchen. Don't put peace lilies in a south or west-facing window. The direct, intense mid-day and afternoon sun will likely fry your plant.

Peace lilies will also live in very low light conditions (such as a poorly-lit office), but they won't flower or grow very fast. If you're interested in more plants that grow in low light, check out this handy list.
<h2><img class="alignnone wp-image-1877611 size-full" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/44262790522_2e2b6fe20c_z.jpg" alt="peace lily houseplant" width="640" height="430" /></h2>
<h2>Choosing a Pot and Soil for Your Peace Lily</h2>
In general, it is always best to give house plants pots with a drain hole at the bottom. If your plant is in a place with little light, it will perform less photosynthesis. This decreases the plant's need for water, meaning the plant will draw less water from the soil. With no drain hole, the water will simply sit in the pot. If the soil is too wet for too long, the plant can get <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/root-rot" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">root rot</a>. Let's avoid that!

If you want to go the extra mile, put your peace lily pot on a saucer with gravel. Fill the saucer with water. This saucer creates a more humid environment for the peace lily as the water evaporates from the dish.

Be sure that the bottom of the peace lily pot never touches the water in the saucer. This could cause the plant to get root rot, which we want to avoid! Top off the water in the gravel saucer often enough that it doesn't dry out.

Peace lilies like well-drained soil that holds on to moisture. A good base for peace lilies is a peat moss soil. The peat moss retains water. If you have regular soil, add a small amount of vermiculite.

This mineral will grab on to moisture and keep your plant properly moist. However, when you improve soil moisture, you should also improve soil drainage. To improve drainage, mix about 1/4 to 1/3 of perlite, coco coir, or sand into the soil.
<h2>Roots and Watering Your Peace Lily</h2>
<a href="https://www.earth.com/image/10-best-plants-indoor-air-quality-peace-lily/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Peace lilies</a> prefer moderate watering. Unlike succulents and cacti, don't let peace lilies dry out completely between watering. It is time to re-water when the top two inches of soil are dry. Don't ever judge when a plant's watering needs by how dry the top of the soil is.

This topsoil dries out much faster than soil deeper in the pot. Most beginner houseplant growers chronically overwater their plants. As mentioned above, this will eventually lead to root rot and give fungi and pests more opportunities to harm the plant.

One technique to gauge soil moisture is to stick your finger deep into the soil to determine how wet the soil is a few inches below the surface. A less intrusive method is to pick up the pot. If the pot seems light, the plant needs water. If it seems heavy, hold off on watering. After a few months, you will know how heavy the pot typically is.
<h2>Frequently Take Note of the Peace Lily Leaves</h2>
First and foremost- get a spray bottle and set it next to your plant. Mist it every time you walk by and happen to think about it. This added humidity will help keep your lily quite happy. Second, pay attention to the leaves themselves. Leaf health is often the easiest way to determine how healthy a plant is.
<h3>Droopy Leaves</h3>
If the leaves droop more than usual and look wilted, water the plant immediately. Peace lilies can withstand drying out a few times, but chronic under watering will kill the plant.
<h3>Brown Leaf Tips</h3>
More often than not, brown leaf tips indicate too much light. If you notice brown leaf tips, move your peace lily to a slightly more shady spot in your house. If the plant is already in a place without much light, brown leaf tips can be caused by chemicals in the tap water.

This plant is quite sensitive to any dissolved chemicals in your tap water. If you have this problem, use filtered water for your peace lily. Similarly, brown tips can be caused by over-fertilization. If you think this is the case, hold off on re-fertilizing the plant until the next spring.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1877610 size-full" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/evanslily.jpg" alt="drought-stressed peace lily" width="4032" height="3024" />

The author's peace lily. He let the plant get drought-stressed, which caused some leaves to yellow.
<h3>Yellow Leaves</h3>
A yellow leaf can mean many things on a peace lily. The plant will naturally shed leaves at the base of the stem. If these leaves are the only ones turning yellow, don't worry; your plant is fine.

Other causes of yellow leaves include over watering, under watering, soil that's too dry, soil that's too wet, over-fertilized soil, too much sun, or infestation.

Anything that stresses the plant out will cause the plant to turn leaves yellow. If you see yellow leaves, do some investigation to determine what might be stressing the plant out.

A yellow leaf on a peace lily will never return to being green. Remove any yellow leaves with sharp shears as close to the base of the leaf as possible. Removing yellow leaves will help prevent insect infestation. It will also help the plant focus all of its energy on productive, living leaves, rather than sending energy to save dying leaves.
<h3>Dusty Leaves</h3>
Over time, dust and particulates in the air will settle on the leaves of your peace lily. Every 6 months, wipe down the leaves with a very mild soapy water solution. Alternatively, place your plant in the sink and gently spray down the leaves with a spray option on your faucet.
<h3>Bugs</h3>
Fortunately, peace lilies are quite pest-resistant. However, if you notice bugs on the leaves of your peace lily, act quickly. First, use a q-tip dipped in alcohol to swab down any visible insects. This should kill the scale bugs and mealybugs that tend to infect peace lilies.

Next, wipe down all leaves with a dilute solution of soapy water or neem oil and water to prevent recolonization by any remaining bugs. The most important tip I can give is to act quickly once you notice bugs. They only get worse! Bugs tend to affect overwatered plants. Cut back on the watering if you get an infestation.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1877613 size-full" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/peace-lilies-4269365_1280.jpg" alt="peace lily" width="853" height="1280" />
<h2>How Can I Get My Peace Lily to Flower?</h2>
Most plants will only flower if they are content in all other aspects of their lives. Peace lilies will never flower in a totally shady place. They need some direct sunlight to create enough energy to make flowers. They typically send up the first flowers in spring and will flower all the way through summer in ideal circumstances.

The flowers typically last 3 to 6 weeks and turn green on their way out. When this happens, cut the flower at the very base of the stalk. In order to produce flowers, these plants need some, but not too much, fertilizer.
<h3>Fertilizer</h3>
These plants need potassium in the soil to create flowers. Feed the plants a 20-20-20 fertilizer at 1/4 to 1/2 strength every two months between spring and early fall. Full strength fertilizer is too intense for peace lilies.

Don't fertilize in the late fall or early winter, because the plant is mostly dormant. It won't use these nutrients, so when it begins to grow in the spring the plant could be over-fertilized.
<h2>Don't Be Worried, They Really Are Easy</h2>
While this guide might make peace lily care seem involved and difficult, it really isn't. Once you have the right pot, right place, and right watering schedule, the plant will take care of itself. Even if you don't do everything right, the peace lily will probably stay alive.

Remember to mist the plant whenever the thought pops into your head. It's really hard to over-mist a peace lily. Thoroughly water them about every 7-10 days in the summer and somewhat less frequently in the winter.

Give them weak fertilizer once or twice in the spring and summer. With this maintenance, you are almost bound to have a healthy, beautiful, air-purifying peace lily!

-----

Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.

Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.

-----

The Ultimate Guide to Peace Lily Care

Peace lilies are wonderful house plants for anyone. From beginners...

Houseplants are decorations that liven up any indoor or outdoor space. While some plants are able to survive out of the soil, most plants need some type of earthen medium to grow. If you want to grow a plant anywhere but the ground, you’ll need some type of plant pot to hold the soil, water, and nutrients your plant needs to thrive. It sounds simple enough, but there is a huge variety of plant pots to choose from that can serve many different purposes. Aside from pure aesthetics, the type of plant pot you get will determine soil drainage, durability, and many more variables that are important for your plant.

This beginner’s guide to plant pots will give you a basic rundown of different types of pots and what to consider when choosing one for your plant!
<h2>Holes, or No Holes?</h2>
Plant pots will often have one or more holes at the bottom to help with drainage. Holes are necessary to prevent the soil from retaining too much water, which will prevent roots from growing. Overwatering is actually one of the most common causes of houseplant death! More often than not, you will want a plant pot with at least one hole at the bottom for good drainage. If a pot doesn’t have a hole, it often indicates it’s a “cachepot”, and shouldn’t house a plant directly. Instead, place a slightly smaller pot (with a drainage hole) inside the cachepot and elevate it just a bit so water doesn’t accumulate at the bottom of the smaller pot.

For plant pots with holes, you will usually need some sort of saucer below the pot itself. The saucer collects extra water and soil that seems out so it doesn’t get all over the place. Tip: put a coffee filter at the bottom of a pot to allow water and air to pass through the drainage hole, but no soil!

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1883175 size-full" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/fat-plants-2493799_1280.jpg" alt="plant pot houseplant succulent" width="1280" height="853" />

[Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/sweetlouise-3967705/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">sweetlouise</a> via Pixabay]
<h2></h2>
<h2>Too Small, Too Big, or Just Right?</h2>
It’s important to choose a size that’s just right for your plant. A pot that’s too small will inhibit root development and stunt your plant’s growth. A pot that’s too big will look awkward and make it hard for your plant to get water that is held in all that extra soil.

A general rule of thumb is a plant pot should be about half the height of your plant. It should also have at least an inch between the top of the soil and the top of the pot itself. If your plant is getting too big for its pot, it may be time to move it to another, larger pot. Check out <a href="https://www.proplants.com/blog/how-to-repot-a-plant" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this guide to learn how to repot plants</a>!
<h2>Material</h2>
The material a plant pot is made out of determines its durability, weight, and perhaps most important, aesthetic. After all, you want your plant pot to look good, right? We’ll go over the pros and cons of a few common materials.
<h3><img class="alignnone wp-image-1883177 size-full" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/flowerpots-317788_1280.jpg" alt="terracotta plant pot houseplants" width="1280" height="892" /></h3>
[Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/pinkpuppy-214228/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">pinkpuppy</a> via Pixabay]
<h3>Terracotta</h3>
Perhaps the most classic type of plant pot is the terracotta pot. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pottery-developed-fishing/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">This timeless receptacle</a> is cheap, versatile, and one of the most popular types of pots out there. Terracotta is Italian for “cooked earth” and stems from the fact that this material is made from baked clay. Iron in the clay turns red when oxidized (part of the baking process), and gives terracotta pots their classic red color.

One of the biggest strengths terracotta has is its ability to allow air and water to pass through. Terracotta is very porous, so water in the soil is able to seep through tiny holes in the pot itself. This means the soil can dry fast and overwatering the plant is rarely an issue. Terracotta is especially good for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/desert-plants-extreme-heat/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">plants that like arid conditions</a> like cacti and succulents. Likewise, air is able to penetrate from the outside into the soil to ensure the soil is well aerated. Terracotta pots are super inexpensive as well, keeping costs low when you want to add some plants to your living space.

Terracotta isn’t a perfect material though, and there are a couple of important things to keep in mind. First of all, they are not very durable. Terracotta can crack or break quite easily when mishandled, especially in the cold. Be careful when moving these pots around, because a slight bump into a hard surface could be its demise, especially outdoors.

Another weakness is that terracotta pots can actually cause the soil to dry out too fast. Although allowing water and air to pass through is generally a good thing, the soil can dry out faster than you realize. To help prevent this, try soaking a terracotta pot in water for at least an hour before using it. This will “hydrate” the clay, and prevent the pot from stealing too much water from the soil. And of course, it’s good to be diligent about checking the soil moisture in these pots.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1883176 size-full" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/plants-2810508_1280.jpg" alt="plastic plant pot houseplants" width="1280" height="853" />

[Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/bigplastshop-5709538/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">bigplastshop</a> via Pixabay]
<h3>Plastic</h3>
When purchasing houseplants at a store, they are often kept in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-plastic-material-reused/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">plastic</a> pots as the default material. This is because plastic pots are cheap, durable, and light. You can find plastic plant pots at any gardening or plant store and are often the safest choice to make when deciding on material.

Aside from the low price tag, plastic pots are durable. They are usually hard to break and can survive extreme temperatures in the outdoors. For this reason, they are great for outdoor potted plants. Plastic pots are also made in a variety of colors, shapes, and textures, making them extremely versatile when choosing a specific aesthetic. Oftentimes, they are made to resemble other materials like terracotta or ceramic, while having very different properties.

Plastic pots are also very light, which makes them a perfect choice for a plant you want to <a href="https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-hang-plants-from-your-ceiling-36649341" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">suspend from the ceiling</a>. However, their light weight means they can fall over easily when they have a large or topheavy plant in them. For heavier plants, consider a material with a little more weight. Plastic also doesn’t allow for any air or water exchange and will trap water in the soil. Plants do need water, but too much moisture can lead to root rot and kill the plant.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1883179 size-full" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/vase-1121230_1280.jpg" alt="stone plant pot planter" width="1280" height="853" />

[Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/samueles-1246195/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Samueles</a> via Pixabay]
<h3>Other Materials</h3>
There are tons of other materials out there, but we’ll just finish with a couple more popular types. First, stone plant pots. Stone pots are usually very attractive, often adorned with ornate designs. You can see them at botanic gardens, museums, estates, etc. They are extremely durable and can last for centuries. But, stone pots are very expensive and extremely heavy. Stone isn’t the best choice for indoor houseplants that you may want to move around from time to time.

<a href="https://www.philippe-naud.com/pros-and-cons-of-ceramic-pots/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ceramic is another type of plant pot</a> material that is becoming increasingly popular for indoor houseplants. Ceramic pots are sometimes the most aesthetically pleasing choice, due to the many shapes, sizes, and colors artisans make. Often made by hand, they can end up being a bit expensive. They have similar durability to terracotta but don’t exchange water and air quite as well.

Hopefully, you’re now ready to choose a pot that’s just right for your plant!

Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

The Beginner's Guide to Plant Pots

Houseplants are decorations that liven up any indoor or outdoor...

If you’ve ever walked past a lavender plant, you’ll know that the smell of lavender is one of the richest, most soothing scents there is. Lavender is a fragrant herb laden with small, purple flowers. It’s perhaps one of the most well-recognized scents, and it’s commonly grown to harvest its fragrant essential oil. So, what are the top lavender plant uses?

Before we talk about how to use it, what even is lavender? The plant itself is native to Northern Africa and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mediterranean-forests-destroyed/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Meditteranean</a>. There are many species, all in the genus Lavandula. Lavender is very closely related to other fragrant herbs such as sage, rosemary, and thyme (but not parsley - sorry Simon and Garfunkel). The purple flower has been used for millennia - in fact, the Ancient Greeks even used the plant for bathing and put it in perfumes. Nowadays, people use lavender in similar ways that some of our ancestors did.

&nbsp;

<img class="alignnone wp-image-782421 size-large" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/lavandula--lavender--1024x768.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="768" />

&nbsp;
<h2>1. Ornamental</h2>
Lavender is one of the most common plants you can find in a garden. The plant makes a perfect choice for any flower bed, as its intense aroma can sweeten anyone’s day. It’s also incredibly <a href="https://www.gardendesign.com/plants/lavender.html#english" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">easy to grow</a>! Its durability allows you to harvest the flowers to use in floral arrangements, potpourri, and more. Because it grows in dense, low stands, it can even be planted to make informal hedges.

&nbsp;
<h2>2. Medicinal</h2>
Lavender is a common ingredient in folk medicine and <a href="https://www.nimh.org.uk/whats-herbal-medicine" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">herbalism</a>. Many believe that lavender essential oil can treat and cure a wide variety of ailments. Some of these are clinically tested and proved, and the results are published in scientific journals. Most of the time, it’s the essential oil you want.

&nbsp;
<h3><img class="alignnone wp-image-1874487 size-full" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/lavender-oil1.jpg" alt="lavender essential oil" width="1000" height="656" /></h3>
&nbsp;
<h2>3. Aromatherapy</h2>
The smell of lavender is a common part of aromatherapy. The rich smell of lavender essential oils can treat anxiety, lower stress levels, and possibly even relieve mild headaches. By putting lavender flowers under your pillow at night, they can also help you <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-deprivation-damages-dna-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">fall asleep</a> and get a good night’s rest.

&nbsp;
<h2>4. Skin Health</h2>
When applied on the skin, lavender essential oil can help fight off fungal infections. Eczema and athlete’s foot are just two examples of skin ailments that can be treated or at least soothed by using lavender. Aside from healing the skin from infection, lavender oil simply smells good. So, it’s commonly used in perfume, soap, shampoo, lotion, and countless other cosmetic products.

&nbsp;
<h2><img class="alignnone wp-image-1874485 size-full" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/lavender-food.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="628" /></h2>
&nbsp;
<h2>5. Culinary</h2>
Perhaps one of the most unique lavender plant uses is in cuisine. More and more, cooks at home and in restaurants use <a href="https://www.foodrepublic.com/2015/04/02/why-you-should-be-cooking-with-lavender/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">lavender as an additional flavor</a> to sweeten up a dish or pastry. Not only does a hint of lavender taste great, but it also has anti-bacterial properties that can settle an upset stomach. For this reason, you’re feeding two birds with one seed by adding lavender to your diet!

&nbsp;

Top 5 Lavender Plant Uses

If you’ve ever walked past a lavender plant, you’ll know...

You live in an urban landscape. Your workday is long and stressful. You’re trying to come home, throw your keys on the counter, and relax amongst beautiful, luscious hanging plants that make your space beautiful and comfortable to be in. We get it. 

You might have heard that keeping green houseplants around your abode can produce oxygen, help with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-air-quality-home/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">air purification</a> and even have positive effects on your mental health. And growing hanging plants is a great way to be space-efficient. The only question is how in the world to start growing these hanging plants at home?

&nbsp;

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1870867 size-full" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/window-949778_960_720.jpg" alt="hanging plant" width="900" height="720" />

&nbsp;
<h2>The Basics</h2>
&nbsp;

There’s really no need to be intimidated. Your approach to hanging plants, whether indoor or outdoor, should be pretty similar to how you treat your other potted plant friends. Pay attention to what the plant wants and needs, and provide water, light, and occasional fertilizer as needed. If you aren’t sure what species of plant is hanging from your basket you can ask a professional at your local garden store. 

Popular hanging plant species include:
<ul>
 	<li>Indoor ivy</li>
 	<li>Pothos </li>
 	<li><a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/why-do-people-love-the-jade-plant/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jade</a> </li>
 	<li>Spider plants</li>
 	<li>Heart leaf rhododendron</li>
 	<li>Peperomia</li>
 	<li>Shamrock plant</li>
</ul>
Even if you don’t have a magical green thumb, a little care and attention can go a long way. Once you get to know how to care for your specific plants, you can help them thrive!

&nbsp;

&nbsp;
<h3>Location </h3>
&nbsp;

Part of getting to know a plant is understanding what sort of conditions the hanging plants are most likely to succeed in. For example, your windowless basement won’t work well unless you’ve got the proper artificial lights installed. Some plants thrive in the sunshine, others prefer indirect, bright light. Others <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/low-light-houseplants/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">do well in the shade</a>. Knowing these differences can save you time, money and heartbreak. 

Another thing to keep in mind is that heat rises. Often, your hanging plants will be hotter, drier and thirstier than other potted plants and need to be watered more frequently. 

&nbsp;

&nbsp;
<h3>Weight </h3>
&nbsp;

The larger your hanging plant, the more plant matter and soil the pot contains. This might seem obvious, but can be easy to underestimate. You’ll notice these baskets can be really heavy - especially right after you give them a thorough watering. Before you go wild placing hooks into plaster, drywall, or rotting wood - stop. Double check that your placement is into wall studs or ceiling joists. Make sure that the structure is sound and will be able to hold the weight. Otherwise, you’re setting yourself up for disaster. 

If you just moved into a new apartment with hooks already installed, test them first. 

One thing you can do to reduce the overall weight of your hanging plant is to incorporate perlite into the hanging pot’s soil. Perlite is a form of volcanic glass, mined all over the world, that is commonly used in soils. Be aware that incorporating more perlite into the soil will increase the drainage. This means you make need to water more often and be on the lookout for increased drippage.

&nbsp;

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1870869 size-full" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/hanging-plant-3241142_960_720.jpg" alt="hanging plant" width="960" height="720" />

&nbsp;
<h3>Protect the Surrounding Space</h3>
&nbsp;

Speaking of drippage, with hanging plants a little foresight can spare you from a lot of clean-up effort. If you haven’t already figured this out the hard way, water drainage is a big factor when it comes to plants. So hanging or not, so you’ll want to plan ahead. Failure to do so will result in large puddles and annoying messes. Tactics to avoid these scenarios include <a href="https://www.thespruce.com/care-for-hanging-plants-1902654" target="_blank" rel="noopener">a pot within a pot</a>. Plant your green starter in a pot with drainage holes and then place that pot inside a larger pot that does not have drainage holes. It’s that easy. Often hanging plants are now sold from the store in pots with attached trays to catch the water. These are great, but can overflow if you’re not paying attention. 

Needless to say, if you have white carpet or valuable textiles in a particular room, you might want to go ahead and place your hanging pots elsewhere. 

&nbsp;

&nbsp;
<h3>Watering </h3>
&nbsp;

While hanging a flowing pot of indoor ivy from the middle of a lofted ceiling might be an epic addition to a room’s decor, you’re going to want to think through how you plan to water hanging plants on a daily or weekly basis. If it is impossible for you to reach the pot from where it hangs you can either devise an intricate pulley system (hats off to you, intrepid inventor!) or else come up with an alternative place where you can water your hanging plant safely.  Consider investing in a step stool and a long-necked watering can. 

&nbsp;

&nbsp;
<h3>Experiment</h3>
&nbsp;

Once you start experimenting with hanging plants, it can be a fun and creative process to explore. There are so many different ways to display plants in a given space. You can build your own trellis to suspend from the ceiling. Try gluing a (strong) magnet to a pot and sticking it to the fridge. There are vertical planters that can be attached to a wall. Suction cups can be used to secure plants to window panels. People have figured out how to grow plants upside down, inside aquariums and have even painted moss onto walls. Living in a green, creative space is absolutely possible. 

&nbsp;

How have you incorporated plants into your living space? Let us know in the comments below!

&nbsp;

How To Grow Hanging Plants At Home

You live in an urban landscape. Your workday is long...

If you’re looking for a unique and interesting houseplant, it’s hard to get more unique than a carnivorous plant. Unlike other plants, carnivorous plants need to “digest” animal or insect matter to get all of their nutrients. Most carnivorous plants are native to areas with extremely poor soil where they can’t get all the nutrients that they need.

Carnivorous plants attract insects with bright colors and sweet nectars. When the unsuspecting insect lands in the plant, the plant is able to slowly digest it and extract nutrients.

But keeping a carnivorous plant alive is about more than providing it with so-so soil and a few bits of hamburger. Let’s look through the logistics of keeping a carnivorous plant at home.

&nbsp;
<h2>Can carnivorous plants survive indoors?</h2>
Yes, carnivorous plants can survive indoors. But they’re a bit more challenging than your average houseplant. If you’re a beginner or tend to kill your plants quickly, you might want to get a bit more practice before attempting to keep a carnivorous plant alive.

Most carnivorous plants evolved in humid, boggy environments with low-quality soil. You’ll need to provide them with:
<ul>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">Unique, moist soil that’s highly acidic - not just normal potting soil. Make your own by combining sand and peat moss in equal parts.
<ul>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">Well-draining but moist soil is a must. Gravel at the base of the pot or terrarium can help keep your plant well-drained.</li>
</ul>
</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">High humidity. You’ll be most successful if you provide a humid environment by putting the plant inside of a terrarium with some air flow via a gap in the lid.</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">Bright but indirect sunlight. Be careful to avoid overheating the plants if you keep them inside a terrarium.</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">Purified water to avoid giving the plant water that’s too alkaline or full of minerals.</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">Food - usually in the form of insects. Your carnivorous plant should get a variety of insects to balance out the nutrients. Hamburger and animal meat is too high in protein. You can release crickets or other store-bought insects into the terrarium.</li>
</ul>
It might seem odd that soil can be too rich for a plant. But because carnivorous plants evolved to deal with acidic, nutrient-deficient soils, that’s what they need today! Fertilizer or rich soil can kill your plant.

Some carnivorous plants are easier to grow indoors than others. It’s best to start with the easy ones first, then add the more challenging ones to your greenhouse as you go.

&nbsp;
<h2>Which carnivorous plant is the easiest to grow?</h2>
Most beginners start out with a <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia/plant/en/dionaea-muscipula/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Venus flytrap</a>. This plant is the best-known carnivorous plant, with distinctive “jaws” that clamp shut on insects when they try to sample the plant’s nectar.

&nbsp;

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1869913 size-large" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/venus-flytrap-595235_1280-1024x682.jpg" alt="venus flytrap carnivorous plants to keep at home" width="1024" height="682" />

&nbsp;

The problem is, Venus flytraps aren’t actually all that easy. That’s because in order to stay healthy, they need to go through dormancy ever year. Venus flytraps evolved in a temperate climate where they basically hibernate for several months per year.

If you’re keeping your Venus flytraps indoors and don’t let them go dormant during the year, they’ll die much younger (2-3 years in general). If you have a cool area of the house that stays between 35 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit, you can put your plants there for the winter. Be sure to introduce them to dormancy gradually, just like if they were in the wild. They’ll still need some sunlight. If you don’t have a space for that, it’s hard to properly care for the Venus flytrap.

Instead of trying to work through dormancy as a first-time carnivorous plant owner, consider bringing home one of these easy carnivorous plants instead:

&nbsp;

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1869916 size-full" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/pitcher-plant-362370_640.jpg" alt="pitcher plant carnivorous plant you can keep at home" width="640" height="436" />

&nbsp;
<h3>Asian Pitcher Plants</h3>
These plants do best with warm daytime temperatures, so they often do best on patios or other toasty parts of the house. 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit is perfect. They like bright, indirect light and do very well in hanging baskets.

&nbsp;
<h3>Bladderworts</h3>
These gorgeous little carnivorous plants are perfect for your home. <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia/plant/en/utricularia-chrysantha/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bladderworts</a> have delicate white flowers and can happily grow inside teacups. You can get terrestrial or aquatic bladderworts, whichever you prefer! These hardy little plants aren’t picky about soil or drainage - they just like to have plenty of light. 

These plants have some of the most complex feeding systems of all plants, so you won’t actually be feeding them like other carnivorous plants. They eat microscopic nematodes in their soil.

&nbsp;

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1869917 size-full" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/butterwort-54175_640.jpg" alt="butterwort carnivorous plant" width="640" height="480" />

&nbsp;
<h3>Butterworts</h3>
These small plants look like succulents but are actually carnivorous plants. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia/plant/en/pinguicula-orchidioides/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mexican butterwort</a> is the most common species around. It actually does go through dormancy, but it doesn’t need much special care during that time - you just have to stop watering and feeding it during the winter, and it will be fine.

Butterworts like indirect sunlight and very well-draining soil. Your potting mix should be closer to ¾ sand or lava rock to ¼ peat, rather than the usual 50/50 mix for other carnivorous plants.

&nbsp;

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1869918 size-full" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/plant-142084_640.jpg" alt="sundew carnivorous plant" width="640" height="426" />

&nbsp;
<h3>Tropical Sundews</h3>
Tropical sundew species don’t need to go through dormancy (the temperate species do need dormancy, so steer clear if you’re not equipped for that). <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia/plant/en/drosera-aliciae/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Alice sundews</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/plants/drosera-capensis/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cape sundews</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia/plant/en/drosera-binata/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">fork-leaved sundews</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia/plant/en/drosera-spatulata/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">spoon-leaf sundews</a>, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia/plant/en/drosera-adelae/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">lance-leaf sundews</a> all require the same, easy-growing conditions. You can even grow several different species in the same container!

Sundews love bright light and lots of clean water. Feed no more than two branches once per week. Feed them spiders, ants, crickets, and flies. Some carnivorous plant growers also feed their plants with wet betta fish pellets with great results. Read more about <a href="http://thecarnivoregirl.com/carnivorous-plants-for-beginners-unkillable-sundews" target="_blank" rel="noopener">sundew care here</a>.

These carnivorous plants are perfect for keeping at home. They're easy, they don't require dormancy, and they're beautiful.

&nbsp;

Carnivorous Plants You Can Keep at Home

If you’re looking for a unique and interesting houseplant, it’s...

Jasmine has been cultivated and prized by humans for millennia. The showy plant is famous for its beautiful white flowers and rich fragrance. Many people have heard of the flower, or maybe even have a friend named Jasmine. But, not many people know of the importance of this simple looking white bloom. We’ll go over some facts about jasmine and why this plant has so much significance in many different cultures.

Jasmine is a genus of plants we call Jasminum. There are actually well over 200 species of the plant, and they come in a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes. You can find them all over tropical and subtropical regions of Europe, Asia, and Oceania. But, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/species-diversity-greater-tropics-poles/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">highest diversity</a> of jasmine is in southern and southeast Asia.

Although there is only one species of jasmine native to Europe, many different species now grow naturally in Meditteranean countries. Likewise, horticulturists and home gardeners alike cultivate the flowers throughout the Americas. It seems like everyone wants to fill their gardens with the delicate, scented flowers. What makes this plant so great?

&nbsp;
<h2>Fragrance</h2>
The main reason jasmine is so famous is its <a href="https://www.quora.com/Which-is-the-best-jasmine-perfume" target="_blank" rel="noopener">strong fragrance</a>. People adore the flower for its strong, sweet smell. Countless cultures worldwide include it in aromatic products like candles, perfumes, soaps, and lotions. You can even infuse your own products at home with the lovely scent of the white bloom.

Some types of jasmines are grown commercially, strictly for use in cosmetics and aromatherapy. Because it’s such a highly sought after scent, jasmine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/essential-oils-mosquito-repellent/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">essential oil</a> is one of the most expensive commodities in fragrance-based industries!

One common gardening practice is to plant jasmine close to windows, to allow the scented air to drift into your home during the day. It’s basically like having a natural air freshener right outside your house.

&nbsp;

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1869299 size-full" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/jasminebuds.jpg" alt="jasmine buds tea" width="1000" height="594" />
<h2>Jasmine Tea</h2>
In many countries, <a href="https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/beverage/health-benefits-of-jasmine-tea.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">jasmine tea</a> is a popular drink. Tea makers start with a base of green or white tea. The flower buds of Arabian jasmine, Jasminum sambac, are steeped in the tea inside a special machine for up to six hours to flavor the beverage. Sometimes, brewers repeat this process multiple times to get the most flavor from the plant.

It’s important to note that the flowers and leaves of jasmine are not edible, so you shouldn’t simply brew the plant directly in water to make tea.

With that said, jasmine tea is a popular beverage in China, India, and many countries in the Middle East.

&nbsp;
<h3><img class="alignnone wp-image-1869298 size-full" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/jasminebasket.jpg" alt="jasmine flowers basket" width="1000" height="750" /></h3>
<h2>Culture</h2>
People in the Middle East and Asia hold jasmine to such high regard that they consistently feature the flowers in traditional ceremonies. Even the origin of the scientific name Jasminum has significance. The name comes from the Persian word “yasamin” which means “gift from God.” Only one of the most beautiful flowers could boast a name like that.

In many countries, jasmines evoke love and peace, so it often takes part in wedding ceremonies. It also symbolizes modesty; although jasmine flowers are small and simple, they produce a strong, delectable fragrance.

In 1993, Arabian jasmine was declared the national flower of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/100-new-species-beetle/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Indonesia</a>. Although this decision was made relatively recently, the plant had been sacred in Indonesian culture since ancient times. Indonesian wedding ceremonies have traditionally used the flower buds in garlands and headdresses.

Like in Indonesia, jasmines are used in wedding ceremonies in Pakistan. The bride and groom wear garlands made of white jasmines and red roses to symbolize love and harmony. In Thailand, jasmine is a common symbol of motherhood. The Syrian city of Damascus is also called the <a href="http://peacockplume.fr/food-travel/damascus-city-jasmine" target="_blank" rel="noopener">City of Jasmine</a> and uses the flower as its symbol.

As you can see, people all over the world revere jasmine, and for very similar reasons.

&nbsp;
<h2>Cultivation</h2>
Because of its international popularity, jasmines have been cultivated for generations. While most types of the plant can only survive in tropical climates, there are a few cultivated varieties more suited for temperate regions.

So, if you’re dying to have one of the sweetest smelling flowers in your garden at home, there’s bound to be a type of jasmine that’s right for you!

&nbsp;

What's So Great About the Jasmine Flower?

Jasmine has been cultivated and prized by humans for millennia....

Penjing is an ancient Chinese art form of creating landscape scenes on a miniature scale.  This art form is also known by the name penzai. The scenes feature living plants that artists and care-takers meticulously prune and cultivate to express emotion. 

Penjing pieces can be whimsical, surreal scenes. Artists will include miniature figurines, such as a horse or person, communicating a dream-like narrative of natural elements. 

Above all, the aim of this art form is to embody the principles that govern nature. Today we'll explore the basics of this ancient art form and the various elements that define it as it exists in modernity. 

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1887966" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/shutterstock_1743823430.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="667" />
<h2>History of Penjing</h2>
Dating all the way back to the 1st Century AD (and perhaps even earlier), practitioners of Daoist mysticism have endeavored to create landscape scenes in miniature. People see it as a means to focus on and increase the properties we might experience at full-size sights. 

In the art form’s earliest versions, it was said to be a legendary power to <a href="http://www.magiminiland.org/Paintings/Chinato960.html#Courtiers" target="_blank" rel="noopener">shrink entire landscapes</a> down to the size of a wide pot. Buddhist monks from China brought the art form to Japan. Members of the aristocracy and even <a href="https://mbgna.umich.edu/matthaei-botanical-gardens/gardens/bonsai-and-penjing-collection/history/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">samurai practiced it</a>. Today, students often study for ten or more years to gain sufficient skills in the craft.

In Chinese, <a href="https://mbgna.umich.edu/matthaei-botanical-gardens/gardens/bonsai-and-penjing-collection/understanding/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">“pen” means pot</a>, and “jing” is translated to landscape or scenery. When done well, these art pieces are living odes to nature that convey a reverence and appreciation of the natural world that is <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/toxic-blue-tears-blooms-china/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">deeply embedded</a> in Chinese traditional culture. 

Penjing is an artistic style that emulates a wild, natural aesthetic. Plantlife is on display in a controlled landscape form. 

Contrarily, bonsai is a more refined, controlled style of depicting nature initially inspired by the Chinese practice of Penjing. Miniature landscapes are a popular art form around the world today, delighting and enthralling children, botanists, and art collectors alike. 
<h2>Styles of Penjing</h2>
China <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/china-co2-emissions-targets/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">is big.</a> With that scale comes regional personality and difference. The art of penjing reflects these distinctions, with particular styles of penjing differentiated between geographical and cultural locations.

This includes Lingnan style, Taiwan style, Shanghai style, and Yangzhou style, for instance. Experts in the art form consider there to be three main categories within these geographical categories. 
<h3>Shumu - 樹木盆景</h3>
The Shumu style is a landscape of trees, which artists plant within a container. Penjing experts define this style through the use of trimming, pruning, and wiring the landscape into a cultivated vision. This style is very similar to the bonsai traditions of Japan. 

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1887967" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/shutterstock_1743823424.jpg" alt="Penjing shumu" width="1000" height="684" />
<h3>Shanshui - 山水盆景</h3>
Shanshui penjing style is a landscape that features a rock inside a tray of water. Artists carefully select and place stones in the water. Often, artists incorporate small living plants into the composition as well. 

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1887968" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/shutterstock_1742832908.jpg" alt="Shanshui penjing" width="1000" height="828" />
<h3>Shuihan - 水旱盆景</h3>
Shuihan style landscapes are miniature creations that might contain trees, rocks, water, and additional tiny figurines of houses, animals, and people. Artists combine the previous two styles to create Shuihan landscapes. As a result, these detailed landscapes communicate an abstract narrative. 

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1887969" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/shutterstock_1742832878.jpg" alt="Shuihan style penjing" width="1000" height="667" />
<h2>An Evolving Artform</h2>
Part of the beauty of penjing as an art form is that it is a fluid and evolving form of expression due to the ways particular artists will experiment. 

The style and the content of the artform are increasingly varied according to penjing artist <a href="https://www.bonsai-nbf.org/blog-archive/tag/shumu+penjing" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Zhao Quingquan</a>. Regardless of how the art form changes in technical definition, the art aims at “seeing the big from the tiny” and conveying universal emotions. 

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1887970" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/shutterstock_1802172988.jpg" alt="penjing" width="1000" height="667" />
<h2>How To Practice Penjing At Home</h2>
Ten years of intensive study at a <a href="http://cpro.hkbu.edu.hk/enews2005/20050224a.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">botanical garden</a> in Shanghai might not be a realistic endeavor for most of us. Luckily, that doesn’t mean that the gorgeous, peaceful aesthetics of this art form can’t be appreciated in your own home or garden. 

Finding a shallow pot with drainage is a critical place to start. For almost all miniature landscapes, you are going to need access to bright light and consistent, temperate temperatures. These are the easy steps. 

Next up? Research - lots and lots of research, but this can be a highlight of the process. For example, you can dream up the scene you want to emulate or pay homage to, and then work to collaborate with the plants you grow to make it real. 

There’s a booming bonsai industry in the western world with best-selling books and Pinterest boards to get ideas. Often, local garden shops will sell miniature-friendly varieties of plants, rocks, and moss to buy and use. The endless information of the internet is at your fingertips. 

Most importantly, a stubborn combination of curiosity and patient experimentation will be your most important guides in cultivating these miniature scenes of striking beauty into your own life. 

-----

Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.

Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.

-----

What is the Chinese Art of Penjing? (It's Not the Same as Bonsai)

Penjing is an ancient Chinese art form of creating landscape...

So you’re ready to invest in some plants! That’s an exciting place to be and there are endless directions to go. Whether you are starting a brand new garden, filling in a balcony pot, or adding to last year’s landscaping efforts, it’s probably time to head to a nursery. Here are some helpful steps to visit a plant nursery like a pro:
<h2>Do Your Research</h2>
A plant nursery is a place where people propagate and grow plants, and then sell them. There are a wide variety of plant nurseries in the world. Some specialize in propagation, others in retail. Some nurseries focus their efforts on succulents, while others might only grow natives or cover crop. 

Because of this wide variety, the most important step is to do your research before going. Do a quick google of nurseries in your area. Many nurseries have helpful websites, and if that doesn’t clear things up, you can always give the business a call and talk to a real, live person. 

Think about what you want to accomplish with your plant purchases: are you wanting <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/how-to-get-started-urban-farming/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">a salsa garden</a> on your back porch? Do you have your sights set on an <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/growing-an-herb-garden/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">herb garden</a>? Is it important to you to only use starters that are <a href="https://xerces.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/HowNeonicsCanKillBees-Summary_XercesSociety.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">neonicotinoid free</a>? (Answer: if you care about bees, it should be!) Are you wanting to plant a row of lilacs or plum trees? 

Have a plan for the upcoming gardening season, and then check to make sure a particular nursery has what you need. You may need to visit a few different nurseries, and that’s okay too. 

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1877807 size-large" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/flowers-164814_1280-1024x768.jpg" alt="greenhouse, plant nursery" width="1024" height="768" />
<h2>Weekdays Are Your Friend</h2>
As is usually the case with any retail odyssey, plan to do your shopping on a weekday if at all possible and save yourself time and stress. Especially with plants, there is a small window for gardening shoppers to purchase their flora. 

It’s safe to say that most nurseries are utterly swamped on weekends, which means that the staff will be less available to answer any questions you might have and there’s a pretty solid chance you’ll be waiting in lines.  
<h2>Don’t Rush</h2>
Plant nurseries can be such a fun place to hang out - you’re surrounded by plant babies! The smells, the bright colors, the damp soil - all indications that winter has subsided and spring is here. But if you’re in a hurry, a visit to the nursery can end up being a fairly unpleasant experience. 

Often, these businesses have a wide variety of really cool plants spread out over a whole lot or farm. Make sure you carve out enough time to find what it is you want, and maybe discover some new plants to impulsively add to the family. 

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1877808 size-large" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/flora-1842331_1280-1024x681.jpg" alt="plant nursery" width="1024" height="681" />
<h2>Go for the Buds, Not the Blooms</h2>
When you’re walking around the rows of plants, it can be tempting to be drawn to the plants with the brightest blooms, but hold off on those vibrant eye-catchers. When selecting your plant starters at the nursery, look for plants with buds instead of blooms. 

With buds, the plant starter will be less susceptible to the trauma of replanting, then will then be timed to bloom beautifully at home.  

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1877809 size-large" src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/macro-1840261_1280-1024x682.jpg" alt="plant starters, nursery" width="1024" height="682" />
<h2>Check Out the Roots</h2>
Once you’ve selected a healthy-looking plant with promising buds, you can also take a look at the roots of the starter plant. Sometimes, starter plants are detrimentally root-bound. 

It can depend on the plant, but as roots take over the container, there is less room for soil and water retention. This eventually causes the roots, and your plant, to die. At a minimum, it will stunt the growth of your plant. 

If you arrive home from the plant nursery to realize that you’ve purchased some root bound starters, don’t despair! Use a knife or even your hands to break up the roots before planting. Once in the ground, water the plant thoroughly and give it a little extra love as the root reestablish. 

However, it’s important to understand the personality of the plant before you go breaking up the roots. Some plants actually thrive from being root-bound. Examples include aloe, African violets, spider plants, and asparagus fern.

-----

Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.

Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.

-----

How To Visit a Plant Nursery Like a Pro

So you’re ready to invest in some plants! That’s an...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2E0mn5mTvhQ
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">'Death Star' moon Mimas conceals a 15-million-year-old ocean that scientists never expected.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-waters-beneath-ancient-craters">Hidden waters beneath ancient craters</h2>



Scientists have made a startling discovery that challenges everything we thought we knew about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saturn-moon-mimas-has-remarkably-young-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saturn's moon Mimas</a>. Beneath the heavily cratered surface that earned it the nickname "Death Star" lies a global ocean that formed just 5 to 15 million years ago—a remarkably young age by cosmic standards.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cassini-data-reveals-orbital-secrets">Cassini data reveals orbital secrets</h2>



The discovery, led by Dr. Valéry Lainey of the <a href="https://observatoiredeparis.psl.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Observatoire de Paris</a>, emerged from careful analysis of <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>'s Cassini spacecraft data. By studying subtle irregularities in Mimas's orbit around Saturn, researchers detected the gravitational signature of liquid water hidden 20 to 30 kilometers beneath the moon's icy shell.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-unlikely-ocean-world">An unlikely ocean world</h2>



At only 400 kilometers in diameter, Mimas seemed like the least likely candidate to harbor a subsurface ocean. Unlike other ocean moons such as Europa and Enceladus, which show clear surface signs of internal activity, Mimas displays no obvious hints of the liquid water beneath its ancient, crater-scarred exterior.



"Mimas is a small moon, and its heavily cratered surface gave no hint of the hidden ocean beneath," explained Dr. Nick Cooper from <a href="https://www.qmul.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Queen Mary University of London</a>, a study co-author.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-astrobiology">Implications for astrobiology</h2>



The ocean's recent formation makes Mimas a prime target for studying how oceans develop and potentially support life. This discovery adds another member to the exclusive club of ocean worlds in our solar system, each offering unique insights into the conditions necessary for habitability.



The research, published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a> journal, demonstrates how advanced orbital analysis can reveal hidden features of celestial bodies, opening new possibilities for understanding ocean formation throughout the cosmos.



—–



Like what you saw and read?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a>&nbsp;for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



—–



Check us out on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth.com</a>.



—–

Scientists discover unexpected young ocean on Saturn's cratered moon Mimas

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2E0mn5mTvhQ 'Death Star' moon Mimas conceals a 15-million-year-old ocean that...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y4eLFNYrKE
</div></figure>



On the unforgiving landscape of North Greenland, temperatures drop and sunlight barely penetrates through the polar winter. It was here, however, that an international team of scientists found <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predatory-worms-were-terror-beasts-half-a-billion-years-ago/#google_vignette" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evidence of sea monsters</a> that would change our understanding of ocean life in the past.



This video captures the discovery of Timorebestia fossils that had been hidden for more than 500 million years in the Sirius Passet formation. The "terror beasts," as they are called, are a hidden chapter in the evolutionary history of <a href="https://www.earth.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth</a>, showing that sophisticated predator-prey interactions occurred much earlier than previously envisioned.



Dr. Jakob Vinther and his research team at the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a>, in collaboration with researchers at the <a href="https://eng.kopri.re.kr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Korean Polar Research Institute</a>, braved extreme weather conditions at 82.5 north latitude to locate these giant creatures. Using sophisticated electron microprobe analysis, they revealed the detailed anatomy of the animals, including their muscle and nerve tissues.



The find upsets the traditional timeline of sea predators. Although we've long appreciated that Cambrian oceans were at one time ruled by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWI3-UgA3_o&amp;list=PL1QLQMW9MWDwpkFOnvgAmu7wT6rZmYqdJ&amp;index=19" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">arthropods</a>, these discoveries indicate that relatives of arrow worms were first to dominate the seas. These worms were building sophisticated food webs several million years before other predator groups arose.



Each fossil is a story of ancient hunger, with fossil stomach contents revealing these meter-long beasts dined on heavily armored arthropods regularly, cementing their place as the ocean's first apex predators.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y4eLFNYrKE On the unforgiving landscape of North Greenland, temperatures drop...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ow3JH03PqEQ
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">New York is the site of the world's oldest forest.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-385-million-year-old-trees-discovered">385-million-year-old trees discovered</h2>



Scientists have uncovered something extraordinary just two hours north of New York City. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-oldest-forest-discovered-close-to-new-york-city/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">world's oldest forest</a>, dating back 385 million years, offers a window into how Earth's first complex forests shaped our planet's atmosphere.



Located near <a href="https://townofcairo.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cairo, New York</a>, in Greene County, these weren't merely primitive plants struggling to survive. These were sophisticated trees with root systems remarkably similar to modern forests. This ancient woodland predates dinosaurs by 140 million years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-cairo-forest-discovery">The Cairo forest discovery</h2>



385 million years ago, upstate New York was a tropical paradise near the equator. Thanks to continental drift, this ancient forest has traveled thousands of miles to its current location.



The fossil forest sits in an abandoned quarry, roughly half the size of a football field. This represents just a slice of what was likely a massive forest system stretching from New York into Pennsylvania.



Charles Ver Straeten, curator of sedimentary rocks at the <a href="https://www.nysm.nysed.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New York State Museum</a>, made the discovery in 2009. While scouting the former highway department property, his trained eye spotted wandering patterns in the stone that looked like marine features.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revolutionary-age-and-preservation">Revolutionary age and preservation</h2>



The site contains 385-million-year-old rocks with fossilized woody roots forming horizontal patterns up to 18 feet (5.5 meters) wide. As Christopher Berry, a paleobotanist at Cardiff University, explains: "You are walking through the roots of ancient trees."



This discovery pushes back advanced tree evolution by millions of years. The research, published in <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a> in December 2019, fundamentally changes our understanding of when complex forests first emerged.



Researchers believe a massive flood buried the forest floor, creating perfect fossilization conditions. Over millions of years, sediment hardened into rock, preserving these root patterns like nature's time capsule.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meet-archaeopteris-the-first-modern-tree">Meet Archaeopteris: the first modern tree</h2>



The star of this ancient forest is Archaeopteris – not to be confused with the feathered dinosaur Archaeopteryx. This tree was far older and more revolutionary.



William Stein from <a href="https://www.binghamton.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Binghamton University</a> describes the roots as "strikingly modern, essentially what you'd see outside in my yard right now." These weren't simple root systems you'd expect from ancient plants.



Some fossilized roots are six inches (15 centimeters) in diameter, forming 36-foot-wide (11-meter) patterns. These giants grew up to 65 feet (20 meters) tall with five-foot-diameter (1.5-meter) trunks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-changing-impact">Climate-changing impact</h2>



These trees fundamentally changed Earth's environment. Kevin Boyce, a Stanford University geoscientist, explains how their deep roots triggered "weathering," chemical reactions that pulled carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.



This process dropped atmospheric CO2 levels from 10-15 times higher than today to roughly modern concentrations. These ancient trees helped create atmospheric conditions that made complex life possible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-forest-ecosystem">Ancient forest ecosystem</h2>



The forest was remarkably diverse. Scientists identified Eospermatopteris, palm tree-like plants with short roots that reached 30 feet (9 meters) tall but lacked woody structure. The forest also housed cladoxylopsids and a mysterious third species still being studied.



All reproduced through spores rather than seeds – millions of years before seeds evolved. This tropical environment had no grass, flowers, or flying insects, just towering trees creating Earth's first complex forest canopy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scientific-significance">Scientific significance</h2>



Before this finding, the Gilboa forest, located 25 miles (40 kilometers) away, held the "oldest forest" title. Cairo's trees are 2-3 million years older, showing that complex forest ecosystems developed much faster than scientists believed possible.



Patricia Gensel, a <a href="https://www.unc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of North Carolina</a> paleobotanist, notes: "The size of those root systems is really changing the picture. Even 20 years ago, researchers assumed trees with such complex root systems didn't evolve so early."



The Cairo site presents three unique root systems, suggesting Devonian period forests were diverse ecosystems with different trees occupying different environmental niches, much like today's forests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-preservation-efforts">Modern preservation efforts</h2>



In 2022, New York State Senator Michelle Hinchey secured a $170,000 grant for the town of Cairo to construct specialized fencing around the fossil forest site. The town plans to conduct a feasibility study exploring the possibility of creating an educational center and working lab on-site.



Joe Hasenkopf, chair of the Cairo Planning Board, hopes to partner with educational institutions to create a research facility serving scientists, students, and the public.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-for-today-s-climate">Lessons for today's climate</h2>



Why does a 385-million-year-old forest matter today? It shows how dramatically forests can change Earth's climate. These ancient woodlands created the atmospheric conditions supporting complex life.



Understanding how prehistoric forests transformed the planet helps us appreciate modern forests' critical role in addressing climate change. Forests remain Earth's most effective carbon capture systems.



These prehistoric trees changed Earth's atmosphere by pulling massive amounts of carbon dioxide from the air. As we face modern climate challenges, this ancient forest reminds us of trees' incredible power to transform our planet's environment.



The next time you walk through a forest, remember you're experiencing an ecosystem whose blueprint was established 385 million years ago in upstate New York. These ancient pioneers didn't just survive – they thrived and changed the world forever.



The full study was published in the journal Current Biology.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ow3JH03PqEQ New York is the site of the world's oldest...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prrq8Ql81zk
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Acid rain and a crisis solved.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-don-t-we-ever-hear-about-acid-rain-anymore-the-environmental-crisis-that-was-solved">Why don't we ever hear about "acid rain" anymore? The environmental crisis that was solved</h2>



Remember the 1980s when acid rain dominated headlines? Dire warnings about rain eating buildings, killing fish, and destroying forests filled every news cycle. Then, almost like magic, acid rain vanished from public discourse. What happened? Did we actually solve one of the late 20th century's most pressing environmental challenges?



The answer might surprise you. Unlike many environmental issues that drag on indefinitely, acid rain represents one of modern history's most successful ecological recovery stories. It's a tale of science, politics, and technology working together to tackle what seemed impossible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What was acid rain?</h2>



Acid rain isn't regular rain having a bad day – it's precipitation that became significantly more acidic due to air pollution. When power plants, factories, and vehicles burn fossil fuels, they release sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) into the atmosphere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The science behind it</h2>



Think of acid rain as nature's chemistry experiment gone wrong. These compounds react with water, oxygen, and other chemicals to form sulfuric and nitric acids. When mixed with water vapor in clouds, they create precipitation with dangerously low pH levels.



While clean rain has a pH of about 5.6, acid rain could drop as low as 4.2 to 4.4 – roughly as acidic as tomato juice or coffee. According to US Geological Survey documentation, Scottish chemist Angus Smith first coined "acid rain" in 1872, but it didn't become a household phrase until the 1960s and 1970s when Swedish scientist Svante Odén documented its devastating effects on Scandinavian lakes and European forests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The crisis at its peak</h2>



During the height of public concern, environmental damage was both widespread and visible. This wasn't some abstract future threat – people could see destruction happening in real-time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Environmental devastation</h2>



The most dramatic impacts were impossible to ignore. Research documented by the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation shows that in the Adirondack Mountains, more than 200 lakes became so acidic they couldn't support fish life. The Adirondack Council reports that 409 lakes once supported brook trout, but many lost their fish populations due to acid rain.



By 1976, when scientists cataloged all acidified lakes in the Adirondack Park, researchers found that half of the lakes over 2,000 feet above sea level had no fish, according to studies published in environmental journals. The acidification process worked like a slow-motion disaster. As acid rain fell into watersheds, it gradually lowered pH levels. Fish couldn't survive in acidic water, and their food sources died off too.



Trees at high elevations showed stress directly linked to acid rain. It weakened them by leaching nutrients and making them susceptible to disease. Historical records show Germany's Black Forest saw nearly half its trees damaged by the mid-1980s.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Economic impact</h2>



Acid rain wasn't just environmental – it was expensive. Acidic precipitation corroded infrastructure, buildings, and monuments. Historic stone structures deteriorated at accelerated rates. Tourism suffered as lakes became fishless and forests declined. EPA economic analyses from the period documented repair costs mounting into billions annually.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The solution: government action and technology</h2>



Transformation from crisis to success required unprecedented cooperation between governments, industries, and environmental groups.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Clean Air Act of 1990</h2>



The turning point came with the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, signed by President George H.W. Bush. This represented a fundamentally new approach to environmental regulation, as documented in EPA historical records.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cap-and-trade success</h2>



Instead of mandating specific technologies, the 1990 amendments introduced something revolutionary: a cap-and-trade system for sulfur dioxide emissions. EPA program documentation shows this market-based approach set overall limits but allowed companies to trade emission allowances.



The genius was harnessing market forces to find cost-effective pollution reduction. Companies reducing emissions cheaply could sell excess allowances to those facing higher costs. Research published in environmental economics journals and EPA progress reports shows this resulted in dramatic SO2 reduction at a fraction of projected costs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Technology advances</h2>



Policy provided the framework, but technology made reductions possible. Studies in atmospheric science journals document the widespread adoption of flue gas desulfurization systems ("scrubbers") that removed sulfur dioxide before it reached the atmosphere. By the 2000s, new installations could remove over 95% of SO2 emissions, according to EPA technical reports.



The push coincided with cleaner energy development. Natural gas produces fewer sulfur compounds than coal. Wind and solar, emerging in the 1990s, captured growing market share, reducing reliance on high-sulfur coal.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-we-don-t-hear-about-it-today">Why we don't hear about it today</h2>



Why did acid rain disappear from headlines? Simple: the problem was largely solved.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Success doesn't make news</h2>



There's an old journalism saying: "If it bleeds, it leads." Environmental success stories don't generate urgency like crisis reporting. Media attention shifted to other challenges: climate change, plastic pollution, and biodiversity loss. There's only so much environmental anxiety the public can absorb, and newer concerns replaced acid rain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Mission accomplished</h2>



The primary reason is beautifully simple: interventions worked. EPA monitoring data shows sulfur dioxide emissions dropped over 90% since 1990. Academic research published in environmental science journals confirms pH levels in formerly affected areas returned closer to normal. This represents one of history's most dramatic environmental recoveries. Studies by the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation show fishless lakes now support healthy populations. Forests recovered, and building damage slowed dramatically.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-it-really-gone">Is it really gone?</h2>



The crisis is largely resolved, but monitoring data shows the problem isn't completely eliminated – it's managed to acceptable levels. Some areas still experience occasional events during high pollution periods. International environmental research indicates that rapidly industrializing Asian countries face similar problems to what we experienced decades ago, though they're implementing successful strategies.



EPA research shows nitrogen oxide emissions proved more challenging than sulfur dioxide, coming from vehicles and mobile sources. Climate science studies suggest changing weather patterns add complexity to how acid rain forms and falls.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What this teaches us</h2>



The acid rain experience proves that seemingly intractable environmental problems can be solved with scientific understanding, political will, and technological innovation. Environmental monitoring data shows recovery speed was remarkable – within a decade, measurable improvements appeared in air quality and ecosystem health.



Success came from bipartisan support across party lines. Policy analysis studies show the market-based approach appealed to those preferring economic incentives while achieving environmental goals. This support created lasting policy surviving political changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Conclusion</h2>



Acid rain's disappearance from public consciousness represents environmental science's greatest success stories. Through effective regulation, technological innovation, and international cooperation, we transformed an overwhelming crisis into a manageable challenge.



Today's silence isn't because we forgot – it's because we solved it. The 1990 Clean Air Act, combined with technology and energy market changes, reduced acid rain emissions over 90%, according to comprehensive EPA data analysis.



This success offers hope for current challenges. It proves complex problems can be solved when science, policy, and technology work together. As we face climate change and plastic pollution, acid rain reminds us that dramatic positive change is possible.



Next time someone asks whether environmental regulations work, remember acid rain. It's proof that sometimes, we get it right.



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



Sources: This article draws from EPA official documentation and progress reports, peer-reviewed research published in environmental and atmospheric science journals, historical data from the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation records, US Geological Survey publications, policy analysis studies, and environmental monitoring data collected over three decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Frequently Asked Questions</h2>



1. Is acid rain completely gone? No, but EPA monitoring shows it's reduced to manageable levels. US sulfur dioxide emissions dropped over 90% since 1990, making acid rain much less severe than the 1980s crisis.



2. How long did solving take? Environmental monitoring data shows significant improvements began within 5-10 years of 1990s emission controls. Full ecosystem recovery took longer – some areas need 20-30 years for complete recovery.



3. What made the solution successful? Clear scientific understanding, visible damage motivating action, bipartisan support, available technology, and innovative market-based policies like cap-and-trade.



4. Do other countries have acid rain problems? Yes, particularly rapidly industrializing Asian countries. However, international environmental research shows many implement similar successful control strategies.



5. Could acid rain return? Potentially, if regulations weaken or we return to high-sulfur coal without controls, though effects would take years to become severe according to environmental projections.



6. Can you recommend any teaching tools on the subject of "acid rain"? The United States Environmental Protection Agency produced a wonderful teacher's guide for ages 14 and under that you can find on the EPA website here: <a href="https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-03/documents/teachersguide.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-03/documents/teachersguide.pdf</a>



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

The environmental problem we actually solved

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prrq8Ql81zk Acid rain and a crisis solved. Why don't we...

Fresh,Radish,Harvest,On,Soil,In,Garden.

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/Fi2OeEwuzRM?si=vTyd2m9FMmtyWkex
</div></figure>







Mid-July is an opportune time to kick-start a thriving fall garden, and this guide lays out the best vegetables and herbs to plant now for a fruitful autumn harvest. 



Fast-growing leafy greens such as spinach, lettuce, kale, and arugula perform especially well in the waning summer heat, with harvests beginning as soon as 30 days. 



These cool-season crops relish the transition into fall, offering repeated yields with cut-and-come-again methods.



Root vegetables like radishes, carrots, and beets also excel during this period. Radishes deliver satisfaction in under a month, while carrots and beets mature in about two months. Employing succession planting ensures a continuous stream of produce deep into the cooler months. 



For a boost of fresh flavor, herbs like cilantro, basil, dill, and chervil are excellent picks. These heat-loving varieties flourish in July’s warmth and are harvest-ready in about 30 days, especially when sown continuously.



Gardeners in zones 6 through 9 can benefit from planting bush beans and snap peas, which don’t require trellising and are ideal for compact plots. 



Maturing in 50–60 days, they’re a smart choice for quick, protein-rich harvests. For those in hotter regions, heat-tolerant crops such as okra and southern peas provide reliable yields and thrive in scorching conditions.



This guide emphasizes more than crop selection—it highlights the importance of timing, soil preparation, and ongoing sowing techniques. 



With thoughtful planning and attention to regional climate needs, even late-summer gardeners can enjoy fresh salads, hearty stews, and the satisfaction of a robust, homegrown harvest well into fall.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



-----

What to plant in your garden in mid-July

https://youtu.be/Fi2OeEwuzRM?si=vTyd2m9FMmtyWkex Mid-July is an opportune time to kick-start a thriving...

Green,Ecoduct,Over,An,Empty,Highway,During,Sunset.

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU
</div></figure>



A new long-term study in Monkton, Vermont, reveals that wildlife tunnels significantly reduce amphibian road mortality during seasonal migrations. 



Frogs and salamanders often cross roads to reach breeding ponds each spring, but many are killed by vehicles. 



Researchers from the <a href="https://www.uvm.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Vermont</a>, in collaboration with local citizens and the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, installed two underpass tunnels in 2015. 



Over a 12-year monitoring period, they observed an 80.2% reduction in amphibian deaths, and up to 94% for non-climbing species like salamanders. 



The study used a before-after-control-impact design and documented more than 5,200 amphibians, highlighting the tunnels’ effectiveness even in nearby buffer zones.



Funded at $342,397 - far cheaper than wildlife crossings for large mammals - the project showcased the power of community-led conservation.



Local groups initiated the effort after observing mass amphibian deaths. Wildlife cameras later captured over 2,200 amphibians using a tunnel in just one spring, along with other species like raccoons and bobcats, indicating wider ecosystem benefits.



This marks the first peer-reviewed, long-term data set in the northeastern U.S. confirming amphibian-specific underpasses work. 



The study urges transportation departments to incorporate these designs into road planning and highlights how community action, thoughtful infrastructure, and persistence can make a real difference for biodiversity.



The full study was published in the <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1617138125000780" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal for Nature Conservation</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

https://youtu.be/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU A new long-term study in Monkton, Vermont, reveals that...

Scientists are transforming chocolate into a functional food by infusing it with probiotics and prebiotics, aiming to create a treat that satisfies cravings while supporting gut health. 



The challenge lies in maintaining chocolate's beloved texture and flavor while adding health benefits.



<figure class="wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/Ug657J67iEo?si=w96YjGMsg939LD_3
</div></figure>



Probiotics - beneficial microbes that balance gut bacteria and aid digestion - are typically fragile and can be destroyed by stomach acid or processing. 



Prebiotics act as food for these microbes, helping them thrive. Together, they form "synbiotics," a powerful health combination.



Researchers Smriti Gaur and Shubhi Singh from India's Jaypee Institute of Information Technology took an innovative approach, using natural prebiotics like corn and honey instead of complex processing methods. 



They created five chocolate varieties: a control and four synbiotic versions containing different combinations of prebiotics, probiotics (Lactobacillus strains), and flavor enhancers (cinnamon or orange).



Laboratory simulations of human digestion showed the probiotics remained viable for over five hours, suggesting they could survive long enough to benefit gut health.



Taste tests were positive, with researchers particularly enjoying the orange-flavored variety, describing it as having "vibrant citrus notes" complementing the "rich cocoa" with a "luxurious" texture.



This research represents just the beginning. With further refinement of strains, textures, and flavors, chocolate could evolve beyond mere indulgence to become a functional food that nourishes while it delights.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsfoodscitech.4c00741" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACS Food Science &amp; Technology</a>.

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

Scientists are transforming chocolate into a functional food by infusing...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Nushagak Bay, a large estuary in southwest Alaska. Nushagak runs mainly north to south and exits in Bristol Bay, a large body of water in the Bering Sea.



"The bay is primarily fed by the Nushagak River, which begins in the Alaska Range and flows southwest approximately 450 km. The bay is also fed by several additional rivers including the Wood, Igushik, Snake and Weary rivers," says ESA.



"The dark colors of the Nushagak River are most likely due to tannins or lignins (chemical substances found in plants). Tannins and lignins from roots, leaves, seeds, bark and soil can leach into the water and give it a brown or even black colour. The sediments then flow southwards where it is mixed with the bluer waters of the bay."



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



---



By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> (ACS) reveals that proteins on flu viruses are actually flexible, tilting and waving in a “breath-like” motion. According to the experts, these proteins could be used to better defend against the flu.



"The main antigenic targets of influenza virus are two surface glycoproteins, hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Whereas the structural and dynamical properties of both glycoproteins have been studied previously, the understanding of their plasticity in the whole-virion context is fragmented," wrote the researchers.



To investigate, the team conducted detailed simulations of the influenza A H1N1 virion, or the swine flu. The experts concluded that the visualizations show many new vulnerable states of flu viruses, which could improve future vaccines and antiviral drugs.



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



---



By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Lake Trasimeno, which is located west of Perugia in central Italy. It is the fourth largest lake in the country. While Trasimeno’s water level varies, it has a maximum depth of approximately six meters.&nbsp;



"In this Copernicus Sentinel-2 image, captured on 6 August 2022, the lake’s emerald green colour is likely due to the presence of phytoplankton. Streaks in the water, particularly visible in the west, indicate the presence of soil and sediments which have been stirred up by winds. Dark colored waters in the southern part of the lake indicate a presence of submerged and floating macrophytes (aquatic plants) as well as algae," says ESA.



"Surrounded by hills on three sides, Trasimeno is subject to heavy storms created by winds, especially from the north and west. There are three islets in the lake: Maggiore, Minore and Polvese (the largest). The lake’s shores are sparsely inhabited with only two popular villages: Castiglione del Lago and Passignano sul Trasimeno."



"Italy is experiencing its worst drought in 70 years which has affected drinking water supplies, hydroelectric power and agricultural production. High temperatures, hot winds and lack of rainfall are the main causes of drought in the Umbrian region which saw Lake Trasimeno’s drop 1.3 m, reaching the limit of the hydrometric zero in July 2022."



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



---



By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> describes a new self-powered nanosensor that can instantly detect mercury contamination with the tap of a finger.&nbsp;



The oxidized form of mercury can be harmful when it is ingested through contaminated water or food. This makes it necessary for experts to develop sensors that can quickly and accurately detect the presence of mercury.&nbsp;



Zong-Hong Lin and colleagues have now created a triboelectric nanosensor (TENS) that can detect mercury by simply by touching a sample. According to the researchers, their TENS could serve as the basis for similar devices to safely and remotely monitor other pollutants.



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



---



By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> explores the ability of salt to transform the way that foods and beverages taste. Salt is known to cover up undesirable flavors, such as bitterness in coffee or beer, but how exactly does sodium chloride change the taste of other compounds?



One previous study showed that, not only does salt suppress bitterness, but also enhances sweetness and sourness. Another study revealed that bitterness reduction by salt seems to be happening at the tongue receptor level as well as in the brain.&nbsp;



While it is known that salt taste is mediated by the presence of sodium channels in the form of taste buds, experts believe that there is also an unknown receptor responsible for how we taste salt that has not yet been identified.&nbsp;



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



---



By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

How does salt makes things taste better?

[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Santiago, the capital city of Chile. The city is located in the center of the Santiago Metropolitan Region, which has a population of about eight million people.&nbsp;



'The weather of Santiago resembles the Mediterranean climate with dry and warm summers with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (from October to March) and cool and humid winters that can drop to 0°C (from April to September)."



"The city lies in the centre of the country’s central valley around 80 km from the Pacific Ocean to the west and borders Argentina to the east. A tiny part of Argentina is visible in the top-right corner of the image where the mountain crest of the Andes Mountains acts as a divider between the two countries," says ESA.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



---



By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Santiago, Chile in South America

[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

Spiral,Galaxy,,Illustration,Of,Milky,Way

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="e4ZG0Jawp3-2374785-12187" type="single"]</div>



Astronomers at <a href="https://www.jhu.edu/">Johns Hopkins University</a> have created an interactive map of the universe, including the actual position and real colors of 200,000 galaxies. The map allows the public to access data that was previously only available to scientists.



The map was developed using data collected by the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. For over two decades, a telescope in New Mexico was aimed at slightly different locations to capture the night sky.&nbsp;



"Growing up I was very inspired by astronomy pictures, stars, nebulae and galaxies, and now it's our time to create a new type of picture to inspire people," said map creator Brice Ménard, a professor at Johns Hopkins. "Astrophysicists around the world have been analyzing this data for years, leading to thousands of scientific papers and discoveries. But nobody took the time to create a map that is beautiful, scientifically accurate, and accessible to people who are not scientists. Our goal here is to show everybody what the universe really looks like."



"In this map, we are just a speck at the very bottom, just one pixel. And when I say we, I mean our galaxy, the Milky Way which has billions of stars and planets. We are used to seeing astronomical pictures showing one galaxy here, one galaxy there or perhaps a group of galaxies. But what this map shows is a very, very different scale."



"From this speck at the bottom, we are able to map out galaxies across the entire universe, and that says something about the power of science."



The <a href="https://mapoftheuniverse.net/">interactive map</a> is available online, where it can be downloaded for free.



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



---



By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

[sendtonews key="e4ZG0Jawp3-2374785-12187" type="single"] Astronomers at Johns Hopkins University have created...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="uV9Lh2fQbV-1760058-12187" type="single"]</div>



Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky" Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features northwest Lesotho in South Africa.



According to ESA, Lesotho is the only nation in the world that lies completely above 1,000 m in elevation. The country is famous for its tall mountains and narrow valleys, and is known as Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky."



Out of a population of around two million people, about 80 percent live in rural areas. More than 75 percent of these people are engaged in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-will-have-a-global-impact-on-agriculture/">agriculture</a>, including rainfed cereal production and animal grazing.&nbsp;



ESA reports that the country’s agricultural system faces a growing number of issues, with climate-related vulnerabilities such as drought, floods and extreme temperatures occurring more frequently. 



Diamonds are amongst the minerals found in the mountains. Indeed, Lesotho can truly be called the Kingdom in the Sky. Beautiful, culturally rich, safe, affordable, and easily accessible from Durban and Johannesburg, mountainous Lesotho is a vastly underrated travel destination. the Kingdom of Lesotho (Sotho: 'Muso oa Lesotho) is an enclaved country in southern Africa. It is just over 30,000 km2 (11,583 sq mi) in size and has a population of around 2 million.



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



---



By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer 



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

[sendtonews key="uV9Lh2fQbV-1760058-12187" type="single"] Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky" Today’s...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Dublin, the capital and largest city of Ireland. Beyond its pub culture, Dublin is known as a modern culinary destination and a UNESCO City of Literature.



"Dublin is located near the midpoint of Ireland’s east coast in the province of Leinster. The city, which covers an area of around 115 square kilometers, is bordered by the Dublin Mountains, a low mountain range to the south, and is surrounded by flat farmland to the north and west," says ESA.



"The city straddles the River Liffey, which rises in the Wicklow Mountains and flows around 80 kilometers eastwards through the city of Dublin, in which it is canalised and bordered with quays. It then empties into Dublin Bay, an arm of the Irish Sea."



Dublin has an abundance of green spaces, including one of the largest enclosed public parks in any European capital city. Phoenix Park, which was originally formed as a royal hunting park in the 1660s, includes 707 hectares of green space.



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



---



By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="oL4FnPTGCV-2384527-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain. The image was captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission.



"Together with the provinces of Huesca and Teruel, Zaragoza formed the old kingdom of Aragon. Its capital, also called Zaragoza (not visible in this image) is home to around half of Aragon’s population," says ESA.



"The Ebro River can be seen winding its way through the province from west to east in this image. Between its source in the Cantabrian Mountains in the northwest and its delta on the Mediterranean coast, the Ebro River is fed by more than 200 tributaries as it flows 910 km across much of northern Spain."



Since rainfall is very scarce in this region, irrigation in the Ebro basin is critically important. In the valleys surrounding the Ebro River, many fields are used for growing crops such as corn, wheat, and barley.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



---



By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

[sendtonews key="oL4FnPTGCV-2384527-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0879czfG3k-1785905-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> reveals the evolution of the Columbia Glacier in southeastern Alaska. Columbia is among the fastest shrinking glaciers in the world, and the video documents its rapid retreat over the years.&nbsp;



Columbia Glacier is a large, multi-branched calving glacier that flows out of the Chugach Mountains to the Prince William Sound.&nbsp;



According to USGS, Columbia had a long history of stability prior to 1980, with a length 41 miles, and small, short-lived advances or retreats.



In the years since 1980, however, satellite images have captured Columbia’s alarming retreat. By using false-color images, scientists can distinguish between snow and ice, open water, vegetation, and rocky debris on the glacier’s surface.



The series of false-color images featured in today's video were acquired over the span of 35 years. You can see that by 2021, the glacier’s main branch had retreated about 15 miles from its initial position.



The Columbia Glacier has also lost more than 50 percent of its volume, mostly due to calving. <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/nasa-reveals-3d-visual-of-an-atmospheric-river/">NASA</a> reports that while climate change likely started the retreat, mechanical processes kept the disintegration going.



The NASA images are provided by Jesse Allen, Robert Simmon, Joshua Stevens, and Lauren Dauphin using data from Landsat satellites, from the U.S. Geological Survey, and data from MODIS on NASA’s Terra satellite. The structure of Columbia’s moraine played a large role in the stability of the glacier before 1980. 



Like other tidewater glaciers, the Columbia built up a moraine over time, and the mixture of ice and rock functioned like a dam keeping out the sea. It was supported on one end by the shoreline and by the underwater terminal moraine at the other.



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory/&nbsp; NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio



---



By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

[sendtonews key="0879czfG3k-1785905-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from NASA...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="6HyfrAJTBI-1831843-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the Pyrenees Mountains, which form a natural boundary between France and Spain in southwest Europe.



The mountain range is 430 kilometers in length. It stretches from the Mediterranean Sea on the east to the Atlantic Ocean on the west.



At an elevation of 3404 meters, Pico de Aneto is the highest mountain peak in the Pyrenees, and the third-highest peak in Spain. Pico de Aneto is located in the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park, which spans more than 82,000 acres.&nbsp;



"Geological studies have revealed that the Pyrenees Mountains have been around for longer than the Alps, with their sediments first deposited in coastal basins during the Paleozoic and Mesozoic eras," reports ESA.



"The entire mountain range formed due to the upwelling of large sedimentary rocks by the collision of the Iberian and the Eurasian plate around 100 to 150 million years ago, followed by intense erosion from ice and water."



The western Pyrenees receive more precipitation due to moisture blowing in from the Atlantic Ocean. The mountain range contains many lakes, several small glaciers, and some of the highest waterfalls in Europe.



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



---



By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

[sendtonews key="6HyfrAJTBI-1831843-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="QIoVYJqRBi-2434608-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes two exoplanets that are orbiting a star 218 light-years away. A team of researchers led by the University of Montreal has found evidence that these planets are "water worlds."



The experts used data from NASA’s Hubble and Spitzer Space Telescopes. They discovered that exoplanets Kepler-138 c and Kepler-138 could be composed largely of water.



"We previously thought that planets that were a bit larger than Earth were big balls of metal and rock, like scaled-up versions of Earth, and that's why we called them super-Earths," explained study co-author Björn Benneke.&nbsp;



"However, we have now shown that these two planets, Kepler-138 c and d, are quite different in nature and that a big fraction of their entire volume is likely composed of water. It is the best evidence yet for water worlds, a type of planet that was theorized by astronomers to exist for a long time."



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, and Leah Hustak (STScI)



---



By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

[sendtonews key="QIoVYJqRBi-2434608-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

News coming your way