Holly Crossley
The garden was always a big part of Holly's life growing up, as was the surrounding New Forest, UK, where she lived. Her appreciation for the great outdoors has only grown since then; over the years, she's been an allotment keeper, a professional gardener, and a botanical illustrator. Having worked for Gardeningetc.com for two years, Holly now regularly writes about plants and outdoor living for Homes & Gardens.In her spare time, Holly loves visiting local English gardens and is particularly fond of relaxed cottage-garden schemes. She also loves prairie-style planting – the tapestry effect of grasses mixed with drought-tolerant blooms never ceases to delight her. Always happiest around plants, when she isn't swooning over gardens, she's looking after her ever-growing collection of houseplants and arranging seasonal flowers in her apartment to paint.
Latest articles by Holly Crossley
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Log store ideas – 9 stylish designs that will keep firewood tidy outdoors
These log store ideas will protect your fire pit's fuel from the elements, plus they look great too
By Holly Crossley Published
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What's the best way to light a fire pit? Our experts show you how
With our expert advice on how to light a fire pit, you'll be able to cozy up your patio or deck quickly and safely
By Holly Crossley Published
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How to preserve decking – 5 steps to keep your backyard deck looking its best
Whether you have composite or wooden decking, this advice will help extend its longevity
By Holly Crossley Published
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Best privacy trees for small backyards – 10 compact choices for screening your space
Create a beautiful and private outdoor sanctuary with these leafy choices
By Holly Crossley Published
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How to attract dragonflies – 3 top tips to try in your backyard
Welcome these insects to your outdoor space – not only are they pretty, but they also help with pest control
By Holly Crossley Published
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How to weatherproof a shed – experts reveal the 5 essential steps
Knowing how to weatherproof a shed is important, especially in fall and winter – our guide explains how to do it
By Holly Crossley Published
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How to propagate begonias – for more pretty plants both indoors and out
Whether you're growing them in hanging baskets or as houseplants, propagating begonias is easy to try at home
By Holly Crossley Published
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How to repot a jade plant – 4 easy steps for healthy houseplants
Is it time to give your Crassula ovata a new home? Here's everything you need to know to encourage strong growth
By Holly Crossley Published
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How to harvest lavender seeds – for growing more of these fragrant shrubs
Although it's not the most popular method for propagation, collecting lavender seeds only takes four simple steps
By Holly Crossley Published
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How to propagate ivy in water – for more plants, both indoors and out
Ivy is easy to look after and well-suited for planting up high – and propagating it in water is simple, too
By Holly Crossley Published
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How to propagate schefflera – for more umbrella plants in your home
These popular, tropical houseplants can be easily propagated with cuttings, explains a gardening expert
By Holly Crossley Published
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Fall gardening jobs – 6 seasonal tasks to add to your to-do list
Welcome a new season in your backyard by planting, tidying, and preparing for the colder weather ahead
By Holly Crossley Published
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How to grow plumeria from cuttings – for new frangipani plants
Whether you're growing these tropical plants indoors or out, making more is easy
By Holly Crossley Published
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When to cut back daisies – for healthy plants and plenty of flowers
There are three times of year to cut back shasta daisies – and all are worthwhile, for different reasons
By Holly Crossley Published
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When should I prune lavender? The experts share their timing tips
Cutting these fragrant shrubs back at the wrong time of year can do more harm than good
By Holly Crossley Published
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When to cut back buddleia – get the timing right with this expert advice
For the best results, you'll need to wait until a certain time of year to prune your butterfly bush
By Holly Crossley Published
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Fall tree care – 5 expert tips for preparing backyard trees for winter
Add these tasks to your seasonal to-do list to keep your trees in top condition
By Holly Crossley Published
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How to propagate hoya – for more of these flowering houseplants
There are two ways to propagate wax plants – and both are easy to try at home
By Holly Crossley Published
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Why are my hostas turning yellow? The reasons and solutions explained
There are a few factors that can cause hostas to lose their luxuriant green hue
By Holly Crossley Published
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How to prune avocado trees – top tips for healthy houseplants
Keep your indoor avocado looking its best with this expert advice
By Holly Crossley Published
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Will a backyard pool add value to your home? The experts weigh in
These are the factors to consider when deciding if a pool is worth the investment
By Holly Crossley Published
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Modern front yard landscaping ideas – 10 chic looks for contemporary homes
Embrace clean lines, bold planting, and stylish focal points for serious curb appeal
By Holly Crossley Published
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How to deadhead marigolds – in 3 easy steps
Tidy up your summer pots and flower beds with this expert advice
By Holly Crossley Published
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How to prune red hot pokers – according to gardening experts
Does your kniphofia need a tidy? This guide will help you get the best results
By Holly Crossley Published