Maria Mercado

Maria Mercado was born to Filipino parents and raised in downtown Oakland, California since she was five. Surrounded by houses for the culture and the arts, Maria took interest in creating at a young age. She delved into modern forms of creation, completing her degree in graphic design at the California Institute of the Arts in 2014. Her writing experience dates back to her college days when she would be drafting design guides in various forms for niche websites. In addition to graphic design, Maria keeps a succulent gift shop downtown. She grows her collection with the same care she has for her design projects, making her knowledge about succulents and plants in general just as extensive. When Maria is not writing or designing, she spends her time outdoors hiking, walking her golden labrador retriever, or painting landscapes the old-fashioned way.

meanings-of-lotus-flowers-banner

A Guide on the Sacred Meanings of Lotus Flowers across Cultures

Lotus flowers have always had a unique mystical allure to them. Who would have thought such stunning blooms could grow in those gross, slimy ponds?  But these flowers aren’t just beautiful decorations in ponds and gardens. They also represent some pretty deep stuff, like the positive moral characteristics of the Vietnamese people. Want to learn […]

A Guide on the Sacred Meanings of Lotus Flowers across Cultures Read More »

How to Grow Dianthus Chinensis

How to Grow Dianthus Chinensis

Do you want to adorn your gardens with dazzling colors that beckon pollinators? Dianthus chinensis, more commonly known as Chinese pinks, adds vibrant shades of pink, red, and white to outdoor gardens. These flowers are not only attractive, but they also play a significant role in attracting pollinators.  In this guide, we will walk you

How to Grow Dianthus Chinensis Read More »