Melanie Griffiths
Melanie has worked in homes and gardens media for two decades. Having previously served as Editor on Period Living magazine, and worked on Homes & Gardens, Gardening Etc, Real Homes, and Homebuilding & Renovating, she is now focusing on her passion for gardening as a Senior Editor at Gardening Know How.
In her spare time, Melanie loves to explore inspiring gardens and historic properties. Based in England, in a village just outside the Cotswolds, she is spoiled for choice as there are so many beautiful cottage gardens and Arts and Crafts schemes in the area.
As a keen home grower, Melanie has experimented with pretty much every type of vegetable at some point – with mixed results. Often it is the simplest things that elude you, which may explain why she just can't seem to master zucchinis.
Thankfully she has more luck with flowers, and has spent the last few years evolving her garden – adding beds and borders, and planting up too many containers.
Though she has more roses than anything else (at least 20 varieties), her favorite flowers are dahlias, and she adores the variety of colors and textures they bring to her garden.
In addition to her gardening expertise, Melanie has also studied interior design, and has a BA in English and IT.
Latest articles by Melanie Griffiths
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7 Trees That Will Devalue Your Home – Check Before You Plant
While many trees are prized by prospective homebuyers, others raise red flags that could derail a sale. Discover the problem trees to avoid if you're thinking about buying or selling anytime soon.
By Melanie Griffiths
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8 Simple Steps To Rid Your Vegetable Garden Of Pests – Without Using Chemicals
Step away from the pesticides! These natural solutions will fight critters from all angles, without harming your garden's biodiversity.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
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5 Biophilic Design Ideas Everyone Should Try For A Happier, Healthier Home
Connect to nature in your home, and experience the life-affirming power of plants, with these simple ideas for embracing biophilic design concepts.
By Melanie Griffiths
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14 Easter Table Decor Ideas Using Spring Flowers
Gather seasonal flowers from the garden and use them to create table settings, centerpieces, and unique decorations – for the most beautiful Easter celebration.
By Melanie Griffiths
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11 Invasive Plants You Should Never Buy At The Garden Center
They might tempt you with pretty flowers or unique foliage, but invasive plants should be treated with extreme caution. Learn the most common silent invaders to avoid when visiting the garden center.
By Amy Draiss
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7 Key Trends We’re Taking From The Philadelphia Flower Show
Showcasing dazzlingly flamboyant floral arrangements and landscaping designs, the Philadelphia Flower Show 2024 also revealed the key themes that should be on every gardener's agenda this year.
By Melanie Griffiths
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Growing Orchids In Water – The Easy Solution For Healthy Plants
Hydroponic orchid growing may prove the solution for an ailing orchid. The method is actually quite easy and fairly foolproof, requiring a few items and a little patience. Learn how to grow orchids in water with this quick tutorial.
By Bonnie L. Grant
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When Should I Start Mowing The Lawn? Experts Give The Definitive Answer For Lush, Healthy Grass
Spring is almost here, but does that mean it's time to start mowing the lawn? Industry experts explain when to spot the key signs your grass is ready – and why you should never cut it too soon.
By Melanie Griffiths
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9 Four-Season Trees That Will Steal The Show All Year Long
Every tree contributes its own unique beauty to the landscape. But if you want to make a stunning display throughout the year, choose four-season trees that will delight in every month.
By Melanie Griffiths
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5 Budget-Friendly Ways To Reinvigorate Garden Soil – To Grow Better, Healthier Plants
Improve and condition your soil with these clever solutions that are simple, sustainable, and cost almost nothing. You will soon reap the rewards with lush foliage, abundant flowers, and delicious crops.
By Melanie Griffiths
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How The “Unexpected Red” Theory Can Enrich Your Garden Design
Discover how this bold new interior design trend has just as much impact in the garden, making planting schemes feel more accomplished and energized.
By Melanie Griffiths
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The 6 Trees That Should Be In Every Yard – According To Experts
We should all look for opportunities to add more trees to our yards, but the choice can be overwhelming. So we asked the experts for the essential varieties that should be at the top of every gardener's shopping list.
By Melanie Griffiths
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How To Make An Orchid Terrarium – Create A Beautiful Living Artwork
Plant an elegant orchid terrarium with this simple step-by-step project that will make a showpiece for your indoor garden
By Melanie Griffiths
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6 Plant-And-Forget Vegetables That Will Thrive Even When Neglected
Nothing beats the flavor of home-grown vegetables, but if the thought of all that maintenance puts you off, then these no-fuss crops are the way to go. Get set to enjoy maximum fruits from minimal labor.
By Melanie Griffiths
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3 Clever Ways To Use Up Yard Trimmings And Clippings – For a Zero-Waste Garden
If your compost bin is bursting at the seams, then it’s time to get smart about using up garden waste. Rather than send it to landfill, these sustainable ideas will nurture plants, support biodiversity, and save you money.
By Melanie Griffiths
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8 Things Rose Experts Always Do To Grow The Best Flowers
Rose care starts in late winter with pruning, planning, and soil improving. Follow these rosarian-approved tips for healthier plants and maximum blooms.
By Melanie Griffiths
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Feng Shui Experts Warn These 3 Houseplant Mistakes Will Have a Harmful Impact
If your houseplants are not providing the positive energy you hoped for, then you may be ignoring these fundamental Feng Shui principles.
By Melanie Griffiths
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How A Tricky, Overlooked Plot Was Transformed Into A Suburban Oasis
Surrounded by six neighbors on an awkwardly shaped flag lot, this California garden feels tranquil and private – thanks to a clever landscaping scheme of outdoor rooms that work in harmony with the newly built house.
By Liz Baessler
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6 Ways The Goth Gardening Trend Is Surprisingly Sophisticated And Sustainable
It's time to rethink your assumptions about goth gardens. This deliciously dark theme offers a wealth of design inspiration that all gardeners can learn from.
By Melanie Griffiths
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My DIY Houseplant Spray Fertilizes, Repels Pests, and Even Conditions Leaves – Here's My Recipe
Senior Editor Melanie Griffiths shares her recipe for an effective, natural foliar spray that will give houseplants a nutrient boost while protecting them from pests and disease.
By Melanie Griffiths
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7 Superfoods You Can Easily Grow In Your Home Or Garden
Don’t splash out on expensive superfoods at the grocery store – discover the most nutrient-dense vegetables that even beginner gardeners can grow with minimum fuss.
By Melanie Griffiths
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15 Thrifty Ideas To Grow A Garden For (Almost) Free – With Tips From Industry Experts
Gardening can be an expensive hobby, but it doesn’t have to be. These money-saving tips from industry insiders will dramatically cut the costs – from getting plants for free, to a touch of DIY.
By Melanie Griffiths