… or containers that offer nectar for the adults and host plants for the caterpillars. Nectar is a sugar-rich liquid that butterflies, bees, and other pollinators rely on for energy. If you … have nectar plants that will attract them. Be a Butterfly Bartender A butterfly’s tongue is shaped like a flexible straw, which it unrolls and dips into the base of a flower. Native … small understory tree was once common in Illinois, its habitat has greatly diminished, which is a shame because the fruit, when ripe, is delicious. Some hairstreaks lay their eggs on oaks, …
Type: Plant Info
… favorite vegetables, but with the renewed interest in homegrown food, their popularity is growing through the "green" roof. Considered a warm-season crop because plants need warm soil … outdoors after mid-May in the Chicago area. Even then you might need to cover plants, which is why many gardeners wait until after Memorial Day to plant. Choosing the Best The best tomato varieties to grow depend on where you live. Our midwestern growing season is pretty short, so it’s important to know how many days a particular variety needs to produce …
Type: Plant Info
… The genus Hibiscus is a large group of flowering plants in the mallow family. The name Hibiscus came from the Greek … requires full sun, shelter from strong winds, and the warmth of summer. Their survival is dependent on surrounding temperatures remaining above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Because of these … such as swamps and marshes. Although it prefers similar conditions in the home garden, it is somewhat tolerant of dry soil if situated in a partially shaded spot. Narrow and upright, …
Type: Plant Info
… Ayurveda is the popular health and healing system associated with yoga. If you’ve benefitted from your …
Type: Item Detail
… fibers, twigs, silk flowers, and more to create a truly unique piece. This weaving technique is popular for making free-form fiber art. All materials included. Natasha Lehrer Lewis, Esther’s …
Type: Item Detail
… Q: Is it safe to compost rhubarb leaves? A: Yes. Although the leaves of rhubarb plants contain a …
Type: Plant Info
… than 3,000 newly developed, man-made orchid hybrids are registered every year—‘Blue Birds’ is a glorious recent addition. Can you find the eponymous bird (in mid-flight) in this orchid? …
Type: Plant Info
… late winter. Place this kalanchoe in a brightly lit area and avoid over watering. This plant is tolerant of the drier humidity found in many homes during the winter months. …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
… This low-growing, mounded annual is covered in cobalt blue, white-and-yellow trumpet shaped flowers from summer into early fall. …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
… June followed by edible red, green, and black fruit. It belongs in a hedge or a border and is also attractive to birds. …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
