Chickadees are delightful little birds that bring joy and vibrancy to any garden. More importantly, these feathered friends are incredible at controlling garden pests. As a gardener, there’s nothing more satisfying than watching these active birds flitting about, knowing they are helping keep harmful insects in check. Attracting chickadees to your garden can lead to...

A new econometric study has revealed just how costly aggressive immigration enforcement can be to America’s food system – and your bottom line. Researchers examined the aftermath of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids in Oxnard, California, one of the country’s most productive agricultural regions. What they found is stunning: farm labor in the area...

Pumpkins are one of the highlights of the fall season, bringing festive charm to front porches, dining tables, and holiday celebrations. As soon as autumn arrives, grocery stores fill their entrances with bins of bright orange pumpkins, tempting shoppers to grab one on the way in. While it may seem convenient, buying pumpkins from big-box...

Fall and winter can feel quiet in the garden as flowers fade and many pollinators retreat, but it is actually one of the most important times to support wildlife. As natural food sources dwindle, birds rely on well-stocked backyards for shelter, water, and nutrition. By providing what they need during the colder months, you not...

Growing tomatoes is one of the greatest joys of gardening. There’s nothing quite like plucking a ripe, juicy tomato from the vine and savoring the fruits of your labor. But it can be incredibly frustrating when, just as your tomatoes are ripening, they start to split. I’ve been there, staring at those unsightly cracks and...

Each fall, millions of Americans spend their weekends raking leaves into neat piles, stuffing them into plastic bags, and hauling them to the curb for disposal. It feels productive, responsible, and clean. But in reality, this widespread practice is doing far more harm than good. Those leaves you’re bagging up are not yard waste. They...

The ocean is often framed as being the next frontier in energy: offshore wind, deep‑sea drilling, tidal power. When it comes to whales, reputable science is increasingly indicating a surprising divide: wind turbines appear to pose far lower risks, while oil and gas operations carry heavy danger. Wind Turbines & Whales: What the Science Says...

September marks the beginning of an incredible journey for hummingbirds, as they embark on their long migration to warmer climates. These tiny birds, known for their vibrant colors and rapid wing beats, will travel thousands of miles to their wintering grounds in Central America and Mexico. It’s a journey that requires an immense amount of...

Gardening is a rewarding hobby that brings beauty and joy to your home. However, sometimes your garden might not flourish as expected despite your best efforts. If your plants are struggling, it’s easy to feel frustrated and wonder what went wrong. As a passionate gardener, I’ve discovered that the reasons for a failing garden can...

Edible landscaping is a fantastic way to combine the beauty of ornamental plants with the practicality of growing your own food. By choosing shrubs that are both attractive and produce delicious fruits or leaves, you can create a garden that is not only visually appealing but also highly functional. As a gardener, incorporating edible shrubs...

Succulents have become one of the most popular houseplants in recent years, and for good reason. They are beautiful, low-maintenance, and come in an incredible variety of shapes and colors. However, one of the biggest mistakes gardeners make with succulents is improper watering. While these plants are drought-tolerant, they still need the right care to...

As a gardener, it’s easy to view insects as the enemy, especially when you find them munching on your prized plants. However, not all bugs are bad! In fact, some of the insects people commonly dislike are actually beneficial for your garden. These unsung heroes play crucial roles in pollination, pest control, and soil health....