Weeds are something almost every gardener loves to hate. We spend hours digging them out of the ground, yet the stubborn little plants continue to pop up where we don’t want them. If you’re anything like me, you always feel behind on weeding. So why on earth would anyone want to celebrate Weed Appreciation Day?…
Georgia ranks seventh among the states for plant diversity. Unfortunately, it also has the fourth-highest extinction rate (plants and animals). While habitat destruction is the leading cause for loss of biodiversity, invasive species follow right on its heels. Invasive plants outcompete, spread diseases to, parasitize, and negatively alter the habitat of native plants. This in…
While most nonnative plants can be safely grown in home gardens without becoming a nuisance, about 12 percent of nonnative plants in Florida are considered invasive or even prohibited. These invasive species spread quickly and aggressively, harming native ecosystems and resisting eradication efforts. Although invasives make up a small percentage of nonnative plants in Florida,…
Every flower garden is beautiful in its own way, but there’s something special about gardens blooming in the shade. A beautiful shade garden will become one of your favorite places to relax and enjoy nature. So, if you have a shady backyard, don’t despair. Today, we’ll look at Cathy’s shade garden and learn from her…
About 1,100 nonnative plants (1) have naturalized in California, and nearly 200 of those have been designated as noxious weeds by the California Department of Food and Agriculture. These invasive plants not only damage the environment but the economy of the state as well. Take action against invasive plants in California by learning how to identify…
In Arkansas, invasive plants degrade ecosystems, reduce crop field productivity, and even cause harm to livestock. These aggressive nonnative plants outcompete native species for water, nutrients, and growing space, changing landscapes and reducing wildlife habitat. The good news is, as a gardener, you can make a difference! Learn how to identify and control invasive plants…
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…
The Bluegrass state is one with an impressive list of plants that call the area home. The Kentucky native plants list includes far more than just the bluegrass that the state is named after. The lush nature of the state and its many natural areas mean that there is a wide variety of plant life perfectly…
Vermont is known for its natural landscape, still full of many untouched forests. This northeastern state of the United States has many native plants for you to appreciate. If you’re looking to build a garden or improve your landscape, it pays to go with native plants. The state has over 1,585 native plant species to…