… When our daughter was growing up, we wanted to teach her about the cycles of nature and, in the process, maybe sneak some science in there. This naturally led to the reasons the seasons occur in terms of planetary motions, and this led … of the year. To end our celebration, we turn back on our lights and heat, and we are thankful for this too. It can be soothing to take cues from the cycles of nature. On this winter solstice, …
Type: Blog
… Deep magenta pink flowers on drooping flower heads are featured in summer into early fall on this hardy perennial. This genus has a reputation for escaping cultivation and invading natural areas and should be grown in a container and deadheaded to prevent the rhizomes and seeds from spreading. …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
… Chinese dogwood is a form of kousa dogwood with somewhat larger white flower bracts, fruit and leaves than the … fall. Members of the genus Cornus , commonly known as dogwoods, are welcome in the home garden for their multi-season interest -- be it flowers, fruit, foliage, and/or bark -- and their range … of dogwood from 20 species (7 of which are native) and over 2,400 plants. Archived Copy: This content was captured before February 2022, and is no longer being updated. …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
… features blue green leaves with creamy white margins. In other respects the Variegata cultivar is typical of the species -- abundant early spring long-lived yellow flowers, red fruit in … bark. Members of the genus Cornus , commonly known as dogwoods, are welcome in the home garden for their multi-season interest -- be it flowers, fruit, foliage, and/or bark -- and their range … of dogwood from 20 species (7 of which are native) and over 2,400 plants. Archived Copy: This content was captured before February 2022, and is no longer being updated. …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
… As you walk near McGinley Pavilion this winter, you may notice that the white stems of the birch trees are especially clean and … limbs of 30 whitespire birch trees to reveal their brilliant stems. While it's not necessary for the health of the trees, the task does make the trees more beautiful — and luckily, it is very easy to do at home. Tips to Make Your Own Trees Dazzling Determine if your trees would …
Type: Plant Info
… showy white, flat-topped clusters of flowers. These give way to edible red fruits in the fall. This cultivar produces fruits larger than the species or other cultivars. These fruits have culinary value. It will grow in full sun to partial shade and is not fussy about soil types or conditions. Viburnums are a versatile genus of multi-stemmed … home landscape due to their range of sizes and cultural adaptability. Some viburnums are noted for their fragrant flowers; most bear small fruit that may add visual interest. Many viburnums …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
… from pale lilacs through rich purples, charming pinks, blue, and white. Unlike many primroses, this species is well adapted to heavy clay waterlogged soils which makes it a winner for Chicago area gardeners. The plants clump up over time turning into an almost solid mass that …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
… Mark Your Calendar for a Spectacular Lunar Show! On the evening of March 13, the skies will host an extraordinary celestial event: a total lunar … often called the "Blood Moon." Unlike a solar eclipse, no special glasses are needed to enjoy this breathtaking sight. Totality will last until 2:31 a.m., and the eclipse will conclude at …
Type: Blog
… This orchid's large, rounded white petals are edged in lavender with large purple spots. The … number of genera, each with its own unique characteristics. A common characteristic, however, is the basic form of the flower, which consists of three petals surrounded by three sepals—often … by genus and is consistent with their natural habitat. While requiring adequate sunlight for a stunning bloom display, most orchids will not tolerate sustained direct sun. Archived Copy: …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
… This autumn crocus has up to 20 purple-pink flowers per corm in September. This native of Asia … in cultivation since 1597. Plant in full sun and moist but well drained soils. Divide when the clumps of corms have become so congested they start to push up to the surface of the soil. … late in the season to accommodate the luxuriant spring foliage and that provide a backdrop for the flowers in Fall. Examples include cultivars of Heuchera , Phlox paniculata , …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
