… Rhododendrons are popular woody shrubs grown for their spectacular spring flowers. Within this genus, taxonomists estimate that there are … Where — When planting rhododendrons, it is important to select a variety that is winter hardy for your plant hardiness zone, based on the USDA plant hardiness zone map. The Chicago region is … they are shallow-rooted plants and very susceptible to root rot. Excellent drainage is crucial for rhododendrons, especially in areas with heavy clay soils, such as northeastern Illinois. …
Type: Plant Info
… For 50-year members, the Garden has meant inspiration, refuge, and more The Chicago Botanic … them, and it was a way to find a little bit of peace in our otherwise crazy lives. … I taught for a number of years, and I had copious papers to correct. When I discovered coming over here … through some very difficult years. I had peace and quiet here. So I think that’s what I come for. It feeds my spirit. It improves me.” –Madeleine Felix Madeleine Felix “This was my refuge” …
Type: Blog
… and scouting — to end-of-the-season projects that can add beauty to their home landscapes for many seasons to come. Gardening Alchemy A wealth of basic ingredients makes late summer the … you chose, the natural process of decomposition will provide a nutrient-rich amendment for improving both clay and sandy soils, and will provide homemade organic mulch that will help … suppress weeds, moderate soil temperatures, and conserve soil moisture — benefits which make for happier and healthier plants all year long. Another important benefit of composting is having …
Type: Plant Info
… a small, spring-flowering ornamental tree. Now’s the time to shop and plant. “October is great for planting,” says Tim Johnson, the Garden’s senior director of horticulture. “Any tree that is above ground—typically dug in spring, late summer, or early fall—is fine for planting from my perspective.” Planting now allows trees and shrubs time to establish good … The plants will not be stressed by brutal heat and as long as you keep them watered for the next six weeks or so, they will adjust to their new home. Safety First Before you dig, …
Type: Plant Info
… Dwarf Conifer Garden. Evergreens are cherished in midwestern gardens, parks, and streetscapes for the steady color they bring even to the gray and brown winter. Yet as much as we love to … Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana) Other evergreens have wider leaves: boxwoods, for example, such as those stately pyramids in the English Walled Garden. These plants evolved in … some winters may not be until after Christmas. "Winter kill" is the term horticulturists use for the patches of dried-out foliage often seen on evergreens in spring. In some kinds, it's an …
Type: Plant Info
… And you might hear the hoot of an owl or see the tracks of coyotes, which are also looking for mice. We tend to think of winter as a time when animals curl up and hibernate like bears. … But you can see a lot of activity here in winter, just as in your backyard, if you look for it. Deer mice, like the meadow voles in the prairie, must be out and about all winter, searching for food. When they can, voles will burrow under the snow or through mulch to nibble on the …
Type: Plant Info
… and generous contributions from foundation, corporate, and individual donors. We are grateful for these meaningful partnerships, which ensure that youth development, green job training, … work to advance a more sustainable, inclusive, and healthy food system. Major support for Chicago Botanic Garden Windy City Harvest programs is provided by anonymous donors, Charles & … and generous contributions from foundation, corporate, and individual donors. We are grateful for these meaningful partnerships, which ensure that youth development, green job training, …
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… habitats that sustain our world. The children develop all of their senses while preparing for kindergarten. We have access to the Garden, not only to explore and learn, but also to meet … group of working scientists, horticulturists, and staff members who serve as resources for children as they learn about the world and make the connections that lead to discovery. … habitats that sustain our world. The children develop all of their senses while preparing for kindergarten. We have access to the Garden, not only to explore and learn, but also to meet …
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… An Herbal Fix for Winter Doldrums The winter solstice arrives on December 21. It marks the official start of … That’s all the more reason to have a little fun with herbs. Here are some do-it-yourself ideas for using these aromatic workhorses, fresh or dried, home grown or store bought. They’re sure to get you through the long winter months ahead. DIY Herbal Facial Steam Take time out for an herbal facial. First, wash your face. Place dried or fresh herbs (1 tablespoon of …
Type: Plant Info
… zoo's education department and led pioneering efforts in zoo research, nutrition, and genetics for small populations. He was deeply involved in amphibian conservation, founding the Declining … zoo's education department and led pioneering efforts in zoo research, nutrition, and genetics for small populations. He was deeply involved in amphibian conservation, founding the Declining …
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