Dr. Sarah Green
Sarah earned her doctorate in plant biology and spent time working in botanical garden education before transitioning to freelance writing and consulting. Now based in Portland, Oregon, she teaches plant identification workshops at local community centers and maintains a modest collection of over 60 houseplants in her small apartment. Sarah specializes in helping beginners understand plant science without the jargon—her approach focuses on practical observation over theory. She's killed her fair share of fiddle leaf figs and finally cracked the code on keeping them alive.
Articles by Dr. Sarah Green

When to Plant Peppers in Denver: Complete Guide + Best Varieties for Zone 5a
Learn when to plant peppers in Denver with specific dates for Zone 5a's 148-day growing season and May 9 last frost date.

Nutrient Deficiencies in Raised Beds: Visual Diagnosis and Treatment
Yellowing leaves and stunted growth in raised beds? Learn to diagnose nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium deficiencies with visual guides and get proven treatment solutions.

When to Plant Tomatoes in Philadelphia: Complete Guide + Best Varieties for Zone 7a
Plant tomatoes in Philadelphia after April 16-23 for Zone 7a's long growing season. Get specific dates, variety recommendations, and expert tips for success.

When to Plant Tomatoes in Pittsburgh: Complete Zone 6b Guide
Plant tomatoes in Pittsburgh after April 24th for Zone 6b success. Get specific dates, variety comparisons, and expert growing tips for Pennsylvania's climate.

Raised Bed Soil pH Problems: Testing, Adjusting, and Maintaining Balance
Struggling with poor growth in your raised beds despite proper care? Soil pH imbalances often cause nutrient lockout and stunted plants in raised bed gardens.

Best Soil Mix for Raised Beds: Creating the Perfect Growing Medium
Discover the optimal soil composition for thriving raised bed gardens with our science-backed mixing ratios and amendment guide.

Why Your Raised Bed Plants Are Stunted: Diagnosing Growth Problems
Stunted raised bed plants signal underlying issues like nutrient deficiency, compacted soil, or pH imbalance that require systematic diagnosis.

How to Water a Fiddle Leaf Fig (Never Kill Yours Again)
Master fiddle leaf fig watering with this science-backed guide. Learn exact timing, water quality tips, and diagnostic techniques to prevent root rot.

Container Tomato Soil: Creating the Perfect Growing Mix for Maximum Yields
Discover the science behind the best potting soil for tomatoes. Learn soil composition, pH requirements, and proven mixes that boost yields in containers.

5 Best Fertilizers for Fiddle Leaf Fig (Tested)
Discover the top 5 fiddle leaf fig fertilizers tested for growth, leaf color, and root development. Get NPK ratios, application schedules, and results.

How to Repot a Fiddle Leaf Fig (Step-by-Step Guide)
Repotting a fiddle leaf fig Ficus lyrata properly prevents root rot, promotes healthy growth, and extends your plant's lifespan for decades.

Fiddle Leaf Fig Yellow Leaves: Complete Troubleshooting
Yellow leaves on your fiddle leaf fig Ficus lyrata signal overwatering, insufficient light, or nutrient deficiency—this guide diagnoses the exact cause and provides immediate fixes.

Why is My Fiddle Leaf Fig Not Growing? 9 Reasons
Your fiddle leaf fig Ficus lyrata stopped growing because of insufficient light, nutrient deficiency, or being root-bound—this guide identifies all 9 causes with diagnostic steps and fixes.

Fiddle Leaf Fig Root Rot: How to Save Your Plant
Root rot is killing your fiddle leaf fig, but it's not too late. Learn the exact steps to diagnose, treat, and prevent this deadly condition.

Brown Spots on Fiddle Leaf Fig: 7 Causes + Solutions
Brown spots on your fiddle leaf fig? Learn the 7 main causes—from root rot to sunburn—plus exact fixes that actually work to restore your plant's health.

Fiddle Leaf Fig Leaves Dropping? Here's Why (+ Fixes)
Your fiddle leaf fig Ficus lyrata is dropping leaves because of environmental shock, watering issues, or pest problems—here's how to diagnose and fix it fast.

