Arricca Elin SanSone
Contributing Writer
Arricca Elin SanSone is a writer, editor, and content creator who specializes in lifestyle and gardening. With a background in health reporting, she applies these same research skills when writing about the science of growing things. She trials new plants in her expansive garden, and her houseplant collection consists of 60+ varieties. Arricca has written thousands of articles for publications such as Country Living, House Beautiful, Good Housekeeping, Prevention, VERANDA, Southern Living, and more. She’s happiest when digging in the dirt, baking, or spending time with the people and dogs she loves.
10 Old-Fashioned Flowers That Bring Grandma’s Garden Back to Life
These nostalgic blooms will transport you to gardens of the past.
Hummingbird Swings Are All Over the Internet—But Do Birds Really Use Them?
Do your hummingbirds need a swing in your backyard—or is it a waste of money? Experts weigh in.
Is Epsom Salt Good for Your Garden? What to Know Before You Use It
Experts break down whether Epsom salt actually helps plants—and when it can do more harm than good.
Prune These 8 Plants in May and June to Keep Your Garden Thriving
Here’s what to prune now to keep plants tidy, blooming, and thriving as summer sets in.
How to Attract Birds to Your Birdhouse (and Actually Get Them to Move In)
Here’s how to get birds to actually use your birdhouse—plus the features that matter most.
This Japanese Garden Knife Is the Only Tool I Reach for Daily
Here’s why the hori hori is one tool every gardener needs—plus eight ways I use it in my garden.
Are You Planting Tomatoes Too Early? Most Gardeners Make This Mistake
Experts say to wait for this one thing before planting tomatoes.
Does Boiling Water Really Kill Weeds? Experts Say Not Quite
Horticultural experts say this viral weed-killing hack isn’t as effective—or as safe—as it seems.
Azaleas Steal the Show at the Masters—Here’s How to Get the Look at Home
The vibrant blooms everyone notices at the Augusta National are easier to recreate than you think.
How to Grow and Care for Petunias for Nonstop, Beautiful Blooms All Season
These nostalgic blooms deliver nonstop color all season long.
Do Hummingbirds Really Love the Color Red? The Truth May Surprise You
Hummingbirds are drawn to red—but that’s only part of the story. Here’s what really attracts them.
7 Plants to Prune in April Before It’s Too Late
Spring gardening season is in full swing.
7 Old-Fashioned Flowers You’ve Never Heard Of (But Should Grow This Year)
These exquisite old-fashioned flowers have the most irresistible names!
15 Surprisingly Easy Flowers to Grow From Seed This Spring
Grow a beautiful garden for less with these easy flowers from seed.
The Right Way to Repot Houseplants (And the #1 Mistake to Avoid)
Follow these simple steps to repot houseplants—and avoid a common mistake.
8 Best Round Shrubs That Always Look Perfectly Shaped
Here’s why your garden needs a cute, no-fuss round shrub.
10 Easy Plants You Can Grow for Free From Cuttings
If you love houseplants, here’s the easiest way to grow more—without spending a dime.
4 Surefire Ways to Attract Bluebirds to Your Yard—and Help Them Thrive
These simple, expert-backed tips will help you attract bluebirds and keep them coming back.
This Is the One Vegetable I Always Recommend to New Gardeners
If you only plant one vegetable this year, make it this one!
The Best Dwarf Trees for Small Yards: 19 Beautiful, Low-Growing Options
Some of these top out at 10 feet tall, making them perfect for little yards!
Why Are Four-Leaf Clovers Lucky?
The folklore, history, and science behind why four-leaf clovers are considered lucky.
15 Gorgeous Perennials That Thrive in Shade
If your garden has more shade than sun, these gorgeous perennials are up to the task. From flowering favorites to lush ferns, these shade-loving plants will brighten even the darkest garden beds
Birds Nesting Where They Shouldn’t? Here’s How to Deter Them Safely
From porch lights to dryer vents, birds can nest in the most unexpected spots. Here’s how to make those places less appealing.
15 Plants That Actually Grow Under Trees (Even in Dry Shade)
Dry shade can be a challenge, but these plants flourish there and can transform that bare patch into a beautiful garden.
10 Trees and Shrubs You Should Never Prune in Spring
Learn which trees and shrubs you should not prune in spring—and when to trim dogwood, lilac, azalea, forsythia, and more.
This Is the Best Cactus to Grow Indoors (And It Doesn’t Have Spines)
You’ll love this charming and unique plant.
The Best Time to Set Out Your Hummingbird Feeder, by Region
Here’s when to welcome hummingbirds back to your garden!
How to Prune an Overgrown Shrub (Without Killing It)
Experts explain how and when a rejuvenation cut can save a shrub that’s gotten out of of control.
Is Wood Ash Good for Your Garden? What to Know Before You Use It
Wondering whether ashes from your fireplace belong in the garden? Here’s how to use them safely—and when to skip them.
How Winter Changes Your Houseplants—And What to Do About It
Think your plants are “sleeping” for winter? Not exactly. Here’s what’s really happening—and how to care for them now through spring.
Where Is the Safest Place to Hang Bird Feeders?
Experts reveal simple feeder placement tips that help protect backyard birds.
Want More Birds in Your Yard? Add These Foods to Your Backyard Feeder
These unexpected foods can bring more birds to your backyard feeder and garden.