… Buddleja davidii (butterfly bush) Known as a dieback shrub in the Chicago area, its branches die to the ground during severe winters, but its crown remains alive, ready to send up 3- to …
Type: Plant Info
Today’s enthusiasm for using herbs to treat ailments, whether Echinacea (purple coneflower) as an immune-system stimulant or Hypericum (St. Johnswort) as an antidepressant, is not new. Native Americans of the Great Plains held Echinacea in high regard and prescribed it for snakebites, stings, toothaches, and the mumps. Ancient Greeks believed St. Johnswort would make evil spirits fly away. …
Type: Plant Info
… and logs. Other fungi are plant pathogens . In large forests that extend miles, older trees die to make way for new trees—it is a natural part of the life cycle. Forest fungi help this …
Type: Plant Info
If you want to keep your garden bursting with color from spring through fall, there's one simple habit to pick up: deadheading. Deadheading—removing spent or browning blooms—is one of the easiest and most effective ways to encourage more flowers. It’s quick, satisfying, and helps your plants look their best. Heather Sherwood, a senior horticulturist, shares these tips. Deadheading basil Why …
Type: Blog
Later this month, selectively prune branches from flowering trees and shrubs and bring them indoors for forced blooming. Most flowering plants can be successfully forced if they have had at least a six-week cold period. Even branches with only foliage can make interesting arrangements. For flowering plants, choose branches with plenty of fat flower buds. Prune carefully, using proper pruning …
Type: Plant Info
An elegant earth-to-earth closed system What smells like earth, enriches the soil, and is free for the making? Compost! A healthy compost pile is easy to maintain, has no offensive odor, and does not attract animals. Best of all, composting provides an elegant earth-to-earth closed system. Nutrient-rich scraps from vegetables grown in your garden are diverted from the landfill, instead going into …
Type: Plant Info
… nostalgia with an exploration of transformation. The Orchid Show Open through March 23 Buy Tickets Now …
Type: Blog
… might consider making your own wreath. Clifton is expert at the technique: At the craft store, buy a wire wreath frame and a package of 22- to 24-gauge paddle wire — thin, flexible …
Type: Plant Info
… you can’t choose a houseplant the same way you choose a bedspread or curtains. Most people who buy plants want to keep them for the long term. If you’ve got the most perfect spot indoors to …
Type: Plant Info
… months before you put the small plants outside, usually at the end of May in our area. If you buy small transplants, you'll have to look a little harder to find a good selection of heirlooms. …
Type: Plant Info
