Invasive species, from pathogens to mammals, can wreak havoc on local ecosystems. In the case of plants, invasives spread aggressively, out-competing native plants and thus reducing food and habitat for native wildlife. One or more of these noxious weeds might even be masquerading as innocent garden plants in your flower beds. Learn more about some …
Landscaping
Known as “The Last Frontier,” Alaska is home to beautiful and important ecosystems that have been labeled as conservation areas, national forests, and state and national parks. These vast wild areas host remarkable biological diversity and provide important sources of income for the people who live in this state. Unfortunately, invasive plants in Alaska pose a …
Bright and cheerful, attractive to butterflies and bees, geraniums are favorite garden flowers that will provide color from spring to fall. If you are trying to grow your garden without the use of hazardous poisons and harsh chemicals, you may want to try companion planting. When you learn about the companion plants for geraniums, you …
About 380 invasive plants have been identified in the state of Alabama. These aggressive plants wreak havoc on native ecosystems, competing with native plants and thus reducing food and habitat available for native wildlife. Invasive plants contribute to the decline of endangered species and also negatively impact human industries, such as forestry. Some of the …
A richly textured grouping of colorful azaleas (Rhododendron) in the spring always draws my eye. I often find myself wandering in my local arboretum during springtime, shaking off the winter doldrums, and becoming immersed in early blooming azaleas. The azaleas are surrounded by companion plants and shrubs that help them grow lush and healthy. I …
Covered with large, cheerful blooms, very few flowering plants can match dahlias for the sheer joy that they bring to the garden. With an enormous variety of shapes, colors, and growth habits, chances are that you will be able to find a dahlia that fits into your garden plan. If you practice companion planting, you …
We all have at least one plant in our garden that threatens to take over. It spreads out like a carpet or pops up in random places all over the garden, and no matter how much time we dedicate to pulling it up, it still persists. In addition to how to get rid of it, …
Are daffodils poisonous to cats? This is a common question people ask when they have pets and plants. There are many things to love about daffodils because they are so beautiful and easy to care for. They are a universal symbol of spring, but if you’re also a cat owner, you need to be cautious. …
Bonsai trees are a wonderful addition to any garden, and they can be enjoyed by beginners and experts alike. Are you considering adding outdoor bonsai trees to your landscape? There are many reasons these make great outdoor plants. Let’s take a look. There are many different types of bonsai trees available, and each has its …
I was recently struck by how much I’m looking forward to my Fuchsia (Fuchsia x hybrid) coming into bloom. It’s located in a shady spot in my rock garden. When it’s in full bloom, the Fuchsia looks like a fountain of exotic, red flowers. As I wait for it to bloom, I’ve been thinking about …