Exotic Edibles
Growing Guides
Practical advice for successful plant care – from city gardening to wildlife-friendly habitats
Expert Growing Tips
We’ve been growing unique plants since 1997 for private owners, zoos, and specialty clubs. Our growing guides share decades of practical experience with exotic and tropical plants.
Much of this information has been gathered from first-hand experience. We understand the challenges of growing exotic plants in varied climates, particularly in the Northeast where conditions can be challenging.
These guides cover everything from basic care requirements to advanced techniques. Remember, the microclimate at your location might require adjustments to these general guidelines.
Our Guide Topics
Care Basics: Temperature, humidity, watering, light, and fertilization requirements
City Gardening: Growing exotic plants in urban environments with limited space
Wildlife Gardening: Creating habitats that attract and support beneficial wildlife
Seasonal Care: Month-by-month growing schedules and seasonal adjustments
Container Growing: Successfully growing tropical plants indoors in pots
Troubleshooting: Common problems, pests, and disease management
Growing in the Northeast
Many tropical and exotic plants can thrive in cooler climates with proper care. Container growing allows you to bring plants indoors during cold months while enjoying them outdoors in summer.
Our location in the Northeast has taught us valuable lessons about adapting tropical plants to challenging conditions. Lower temperatures mean slower growth, but many species are surprisingly adaptable.
Understanding your microclimate – sunlight exposure, humidity levels, temperature fluctuations – is key to success. We share strategies that work in real-world conditions, not just ideal greenhouse settings.
Guide Categories
Explore our comprehensive growing resources
City Gardening
Maximize limited space with container growing techniques. Perfect for apartments, balconies, and small urban gardens. Learn which plants thrive in city conditions.
Wildlife Gardening
Create habitats that attract birds, butterflies, and beneficial insects. Plant selection and design strategies for supporting local ecosystems and wildlife.
Seasonal Care
Month-by-month growing schedules for exotic plants. Learn when to fertilize, prune, repot, and adjust care based on seasonal changes in your region.
Tropical Plants
Specialized care for bamboo, palms, bananas, orchids, and ginger. Temperature, humidity, and light requirements for maintaining tropical plants year-round.
Essential Growing Tips
Key principles for success with exotic plants
- Start with appropriate light levels – most tropicals need bright, indirect light
- Mist regularly to maintain humidity, especially indoors during winter
- Water when top 1" of soil is dry – overwatering kills more plants than underwatering
- Use organic or slow-release fertilizers to avoid burning sensitive roots
- Rotate plants quarterly for even growth and pest inspection
- Give plants a "vacation" outdoors during warm months for recovery