Many invasive plants began as garden plants and escaped cultivation to wreak havoc on native ecosystems. Put into numbers, 21 species officially designated as noxious weeds in the state of Oregon cost around $125 million per year in control, fire damage, and production losses, according to a 2009 study — and the amount is probably…
As gardeners, we may consider ourselves stewards — of plants, of the land, of beauty. One of the biggest threats to the natural Oklahoma landscape is invasive plants. While that might seem like a problem reserved for park rangers and the like, these weeds could be masquerading as specimens in your own garden, and many…
Invasive plants pose a significant threat to New Mexico’s human economy and natural environment. These non-native weeds spread rapidly and outcompete native plants, changing local ecosystems and reducing habitat for native wildlife. While the biggest threat is to rangelands and wild spaces, some invasive plants can also be found in home landscapes, sometimes as weeds…
Nearly a quarter of the plants growing wild in Ohio are not native to the state. While most of these 500-plus species live harmlessly alongside the native plants, the Ohio Department of Agriculture lists 63 invasive plant species. Invasive plants in Ohio threaten native plants and wildlife, especially endangered species, with their unchecked, aggressive growth….
One of the worst, most common weeds in the country, Johnsongrass is not only an irritating weed in the garden but also causes havoc in agriculture. It chokes crops and serves as a host to disease pathogens, insect pests, and nematodes. And although Johnsongrass can be used as forage for livestock, the plant becomes toxic…
The state of North Dakota currently recognizes 13 noxious weeds within its borders. Not only are these invasive species illegal to distribute or sell, but they cause significant damage, both financial and otherwise, to agriculture, outdoor recreation, rural and urban landscapes, and wildlife habitat. As a gardener, you can help control the spread of invasive…
Right in the middle of National Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month, on June 16, we celebrate a day specifically dedicated to leafy greens and all their munchable cousins: National Fresh Veggies Day. June is the perfect time to celebrate fresh vegetables as our gardens transition from spring to summer produce and farmers’ markets look increasingly…
What’s that smell? You might have stinkhorn mushrooms if you catch a whiff of something putrid in the garden and notice some funky fungi growing out of the mulch. But although they look weird and smell terrible, stinkhorn mushrooms might not be bad to have around. What Is a Stinkhorn Mushroom? Stinkhorn mushrooms range from…
There’s nothing like being surrounded by calming, sweetly scented, purple lavender flowers. The bees’ hum and the butterflies’ dancing make it an amazing experience. Plan to take your family to a lavender farm this summer for an exquisite sensory experience. This directory of lavender farms by state will help you find lavender fields nearby. How…