… a common ancestor with green algae, but there has been some debate as to what form of algae is the closest relative, and how some of the major groups of land plants are related to each … this week were based on an examination of a strategically selected group of the more than 1,000 plants in the initiative. Researchers dove into the genetic data at a fine level of detail, … but feel encouraged by the wave of enthusiasm around the release of the publication. “When you get involved in these kinds of projects, it never seems as big as it is—you just get used to the …
Type: Blog
… Growing up in Chicago I relished the time being in parks and found it captivating when I’d get the rare opportunity to visit our local forest preserves. These short trips outside city … closer to people in urban settings by giving them a taste of what was once here and what is possible. …
Type: Staff bio
… When it comes to controlling invasive plants, a little faith can’t hurt. This is particularly true for garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata). We have been struggling to get this highly invasive biennial plant under control at the Chicago Botanic Garden for more than … is having a significant negative effect on garlic mustard (see woodsandprairie.blogspot.com ). Observers have reported an almost complete absence of garlic mustard in areas that are …
Type: Blog
… incredible ability to harness the energy of the sun. But when you come to realize that there is a whole world living within them, you can’t help but be amazed. Imagine driving into a parking garage. At first, we might get the impression that the floor and ceiling are too close together, and we might have the … America . The details of the publication can be found at Charlie’s website charleyeiseman.com/leafminers. …
Type: Blog
… sigh of relief with me. Sigh. We made it. Now that it’s officially patio season, it’s time to get out and enjoy the sun. Which has me wondering…should my houseplants join me outside? Can … outside: Be careful about sunburn. Sunburn isn’t a concern just for us humans. Plants can get scorched, too. Don’t put them in blazing sunlight. Porches with shade are prime locations for …
Type: Blog
… Espalier is a method of training and pruning a tree or shrub, forcing it to grow flat against a wall or a … commercial apple trees are grafted onto roots from selected hardy apple trees. Some rootstock is dwarfing and will produce small trees; other rootstock produces full-size trees. If you … the wire and training it to grow along the wire. It usually takes two growing seasons to get branches to grow at right angles to the main vertical trunk. In the meantime, the whip will …
Type: Plant Info
… Pumpkin Baby Boo Pumpkin Move over, big jack-o'-lanterns. There's a new kid in town. Baby Boo is a miniature pumpkin that’s white as snow. These cuties measure 2 to 3 inches wide and 2 inches … near West Kalimantan, a province in the southern Indonesian section of Borneo. Its common name is derived from its near-black leaves, but the plant is not nearly as dark and ominous as its namesake. Monstera, Cliff from Arlington, Virginia, …
Type: Plant Info
… beans can make a mockery of a gardener’s carefully measured beds and neat rows unless they get the support they need. Horticulturist Lisa Hilgenberg searched out several practical, …
Type: Blog
… make people smile and are small enough to put on a desk or window ledge. The whole family can get involved—even teen-agers will enjoy a chance to express themselves with this easy craft. Supplies: Rocks—fist size is a good place to start *Paint Permanent marker Newspaper or work surface *Any paint will … for nontoxic options that are safe for children and environmentally friendly. Sidewalk chalk is another great option. Instructions: Wash the rocks with soap and water. Then dry them. Paint …
Type: Blog
… Start with the Basics A common and sometimes costly expense for many homeowners is lawn care. No matter whether you maintain your lawn yourself or hire a service, this is a good time to examine the best practices for growing healthy turfgrass. Don't invest more … infrequently, and then to let the soil dry out before you water again. The healthiest lawns get enough water at one time to moisten the top 6 to 8 inches of soil. Generally, an inch of …
Type: Plant Info
