Author: Third Orbit Flora
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Summer’s Painted Leaves: Coleus in Color
Coleus plants are often overlooked as mere background elements in gardens, yet they offer vibrant foliage in various colors and patterns, making them worthy of attention. Quick to grow and easy to propagate, coleus can create striking displays without flowers. They enhance any garden and provide joy to both novice and experienced gardeners.
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Growing Together: The Story Behind Third Orbit Flora
People often ask how we got started, and the truth is, it wasn’t one single moment. It was green beans off the vine, dirt under the nails, and a shared look between friends that said, “We could grow something here.”
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Thigmomorphogenesis: Plants that push back?
Thigmomorphogenesis is how plants respond to touch and movement, growing shorter, sturdier, and sometimes delaying flowering. It’s not a flaw—it’s plant Pilates, building strength before bloom. Explore how this subtle shift plays out in your garden.
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🌙 If I Had a Garden on the Moon…
Even in a place like the moon, there might be room for a little color, a little comfort, a little life. A quiet exploration of how imagining life beyond Earth can bring us closer to it.
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Edimentals: Merging Beauty and Function
Edimental gardening—a fusion of ‘edible’ and ‘ornamental’—is trending as gardeners look to maximize both aesthetics and practicality. This approach means incorporating plants that are visually striking while also being useful, whether through edible leaves, flowers, or roots. It’s about designing a space that feeds the eyes as well as the body.
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Smart Watch for Plants: Researchers Build Sensor that Detects Stress Signals in Plants
Researchers have developed a wearable sensor for plants that detects stress by monitoring hydrogen peroxide levels. This technology allows for rapid, real-time analysis of plant conditions, potentially reducing crop loss and food waste, promoting a sustainable future for agriculture.
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Welcome, Spring! Preparing Your Space and Spirit for the Season of Renewal
Bring instant freshness indoors with vibrant houseplants like Tradescantia and Pothos. Easy to grow, propagate, and love, these leafy companions are perfect for welcoming spring’s renewal into your home.
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Green in the Gloom: Finding Rest and Renewal for You and Your Plants
Winter can cast a quiet, gray blanket over our lives. The shorter days and chilly air can make many of us feel sluggish and in need of rest. But it’s not just us—our houseplants feel it too. While some might slow down or drop a few leaves, this season doesn’t have to be a time…
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Beyond the Holiday Glow: Care for your Poinsettias
Poinsettias (Euphorbia pulcherrima) are one of the most recognizable plants of the holiday season, but their beauty isn’t limited to December. With a little care and understanding, you can enjoy their vibrant displays well into the new year—and even longer! The Brightly Colored (or White!) Parts are Not Flowers! Poinsettias stand out because of their…
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The Poinsettia’s Journey Through Time: A Symbol of Celebration
For many, the poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) is a staple of holiday decor, but this vibrant plant has a rich history far beyond its association with Christmas! From its origins in Mexico to its modern-day role as a holiday icon, the poinsettia’s journey is a fascinating story of tradition, symbolism, and celebration.
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