Perennials are one of my favorite types of plants to have in my garden for the simple fact that they keep coming back every year, year after year. Some perennials, like peonies, can actually continue to regrow after every winter for 100 or more years! A perennial garden is easy to keep up and will...
After a long day of working on my garden in the hot summer sun and enjoying all the different plants I’m growing, my favorite thing to do is come back inside and enjoy all of the plants I have in my house too! I guess you could say I really like plants. Over the years...
Creating a garden that attracts butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees is not only a beautiful endeavor but also an essential one for supporting pollinators. These creatures are crucial for the health of our ecosystems, aiding in the pollination of many plants, including those we rely on for food. By planting nectar-rich flowers, you can create a...
In the lush, dimly lit forests of eastern Thailand, scientists have just uncovered a remarkable new resident — Cyrtodactylus sakaeratensis, the Sakaerat bent-toed gecko. Small, secretive, and uniquely adapted to its rugged home, this gecko adds to the growing list of species revealing how much biodiversity remains hidden in Southeast Asia’s remaining wild places. A...
When we think of beneficial insects for our gardens, we often picture ladybugs, bees, and butterflies. However, there’s an unsung hero in the insect world that you might not be familiar with: the hoverfly. This incredible insect not only helps with pollination but also acts as a natural pest control agent. By understanding and encouraging...
Bird baths: charming, idyllic, and a delightful addition to any garden, right? Well, yes, but there’s a bit more to the story. While these little pools offer a vital resource for our feathered friends, especially during those scorching summer months or the icy grip of winter, they’re not without their pitfalls. From the unsuspecting dangers...
Creating a safe and nurturing environment for our feline companions involves more than just providing food, water, and shelter. As cat owners, we must also be vigilant about the plants we bring into our homes, as many common houseplants can pose a threat to the health and safety of our beloved pets. While plants often...
A sweeping new study paints a troubling picture for one of the country’s most beloved and ecologically important insect groups. Since 2000, butterfly populations in the United States have dropped by an estimated 22 percent, a decline of roughly 1.3 percent per year. Researchers analyzed nearly 77,000 survey records across 35 different monitoring programs to...
Vegetables are a staple in our diets, but have you ever wondered where they come from and how they became so essential to our cuisine? Each common vegetable has a fascinating history that spans continents and centuries, involving tales of exploration, adaptation, and cultural significance. As a gardener and vegetable enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share...
As a dedicated gardener, you want to see your plants thrive and produce bountiful yields. It can be tempting to reach for those brightly colored, synthetic fertilizers that promise quick results. However, these blue powders and liquids might be doing more harm than good. Synthetic fertilizers can disrupt the natural balance of your soil, harm...
Ohio’s only national forest, the Wayne National Forest, is facing a new and alarming threat. Under a recent push by the Trump administration to expand logging on public lands, this forest could soon see large sections opened up for timber extraction. The move has sparked fierce debate between those focused on short-term economic gains and...
Feeding hummingbirds can be an incredibly rewarding experience, bringing these vibrant little creatures right to your backyard. However, there are some common mistakes that can inadvertently harm or even kill hummingbirds. By being aware of these pitfalls and taking the necessary precautions, you can ensure that your hummingbird feeders are safe and inviting for your...
