Melody Ip - Garden Guides

Location

Seattle Area

School

San Francisco State University

Expertise

Houseplants, Gardening, Upcycling

As an avid plant mom, Melody is often found propagating her houseplants, obsessing over new growth, and strolling through nurseries.
She is fascinated by the synergy of nature and how relationships between plants impact the way we garden.
She geeks out over how household items can be used for DIY garden and plant hacks.

Experience

Melody's philosophy about writing can be summed up by a quote from English writer John Ruskin: "When love and skill work together, expect a masterpiece." Over her career of nearly 25 years, Melody has written and edited articles in her many areas of interest, including houseplants, gardening, parenting, arts and culture, racial justice, and more. Her favorite aspect of writing articles is the opportunity to conduct interviews, glean stories, and share the heart of these stories with others. In addition to being a freelance writer/editor, Melody is a writer and copy chief for Mochi Magazine, an online publication committed to amplifying the voices and perspectives of Asian Americans.

Education

Melody has a bachelor's degree in journalism from San Francisco State University.

Garden Guides Editorial Policies

Garden Guides uses a knowledgeable team of editors, writers, and experts to create all our content. We dive deep into the ever-evolving conversations surrounding gardening and landscaping, striving to deliver the most current and helpful tips, strengthened by expert insight and tutorials from our talented team.

As we cover many fields of expertise, we make it a priority to ensure every beat remains fresh and comprehensive. Additional information on our editorial process available here.

Stories By Melody Ip

Gardening

Gardening By Melody Ip

The Common Pantry Staple That May Solve Your Pesky Crabgrass Problem

Many people has this common household ingredient in their pantry. If you have crabgrass, you may be able to use it to kill off those pesky weeds in your yard.
By Melody Ip Read More
Produce

Produce By Melody Ip

Never Grow Your Basil Plants Next To This Common Garden Vegetable

Whenever you're planting your yearly vegetable garden, companion planting might be on your mind. But don't ever grow basil plants near this common vegetable.
By Melody Ip Read More
Gardening

Gardening By Melody Ip

A Jar Of Water Is All You Need To Propagate This Striking Houseplant

If you can't get enough of this houseplant, you can propagate it. All you need is a jar of water and a few basic planting instructions to get started.
By Melody Ip Read More
Gardening

Gardening By Melody Ip

Try This Landscaping Hack If You Want To Banish Pesky Weeds From Your Gravel

Weeds are a nuisance, and can grow through your gravel pathways and driveways. Prevent them from popping up in the first place with a clever landscaping hack.
By Melody Ip Read More
Gardening

Gardening By Melody Ip

The Genius DIY That Transforms An Old Garden Hose Into A New Outdoor Staple

If you're guilty of letting an old garden hose sit perpetually in your yard or under your house, hold on. Don't toss it. Upcycle it into an outdoor staple tool.
By Melody Ip Read More
Produce

Produce By Melody Ip

Don't Toss Your Overripe Bananas & Use Them To Attract Hummingbirds Instead

Did you know that overripe bananas can attract hummingbirds to your garden? Find out why, and how to make this hack work for your outdoor space.
By Melody Ip Read More
Gardening

Gardening By Melody Ip

Why You Should Be Adding Eggshells To Your Christmas Cactus Soil

Your Christmas cactus houseplant may not seem like it needs too much special care, but adding eggshells to the soil of this succulent has several benefits.
By Melody Ip Read More
Flowers

Flowers By Melody Ip

2 Staples You Already Have In Your Home Will Help Peace Lilies Thrive

Peace lilies are beloved houseplants. You can give them an extra boost to ensure they're thriving, and all it takes are two household staples you already have.
By Melody Ip Read More
Trees

Trees By Melody Ip

What Does It Mean When A Tree Is Marked With Orange Paint?

It's not unusual to see a splash of orange paint marked on a tree in a forest or public park. If you see this color, it actually has a specific meaning.
By Melody Ip Read More