… dark purple green foliage on this cultivar of the native red-flowered lobelia from late summer to the middle of fall. A great selection for sunny locations with moist to wet soils—edges of ponds or stream banks. It attracts hummingbirds and other late summer …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
… Q. I have a new pond with hardy waterlilies and other aquatic plants. I would like to add some fish. Any suggestions? A. When considering fish for a new water habitat, even a contained one in your own backyard, avoid introducing any that might be related to an invasive species. Unfortunately, some gardeners (as well as former pet owners) discard … Minnows are recommended for pond use, as are some of the native fish, such as bluegills. To create movement as well as a pleasing sound in your water garden, consider adding a small …
Type: Plant Info
… Q. What plants should I use in a rooftop garden? A. There are a number of things to consider when thinking about planting a rooftop garden. These considerations include cost of … and load-bearing structure. Planting in containers may be a simple, economical alternative to a planting bed. Generally, rooftops are considered to be hostile environments, particularly due to wind and sun exposure. Characteristics of plants …
Type: Plant Info
… it appears that some of them are very crowded. Should I divide them now? A: The correct time to divide perennials depends on the type of plant. Some perennials, such as bugleweed (Ajuga) and tickseed (Coreopsis), may benefit from frequent division every one to three years. Others, such as peony (Paeonia) and plantain lily (Hosta) may require division … bloom, you may sacrifice blooms for that year. Transplanting earlier in the year allows plants to become established before cold weather sets in. Plants that bloom later should be divided in …
Type: Plant Info
… 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 … 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
… First student Divine isn’t at the Chicago Botanic Garden, she’s in her backyard, trying to use her iffy, only-works-when-it-wants-to telescope and peering into the future. Someday, she wants to be an astrophysicist and help put … in science to pursue careers in STEM—science, technology, engineering, and math. Divine, who is from the Chicago neighborhood of Ashburn, will be a freshman at Lindblom Math and Science …
Type: Blog
… Recombining store-bought bouquets allows you to make excellent floral arrangements. You will learn how to include foliage, fruit, and dried materials as well as how to prepare flowers before … class and follow along step by step. A supply list will be sent. Please choose either the on-site or online class attendance option. Please choose either the on-site or online class …
Type: Item Detail
… lunar eclipse. In the Chicago area at precisely 10:57 p.m., the Earth’s shadow will begin to envelop the moon, painting it in mesmerizing shades of deep red—a phenomenon 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 3:47 a.m. Whether you're an avid stargazer or just curious, don't miss this chance to witness one of nature's most dramatic displays. Grab a blanket, find a cozy spot under the …
Type: Blog
… into July, with some repeat flowering later in the season. Between 'Olympiade's' height (up to 8 feet) and <em>Weigela's</em> tolerance for heaving pruning, it's particularly well-suited … hummingbirds love <em>Weigelas.</em>, and so do gardeners. For a plant that gives you so much to look at, they're very easy to care for. No particular disease or pest problems. No special soil requirements. Just give them …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
… open, Java Red's flowers are decidedly pink. New foliage has a strong burgundy tint, maturing to dark green with a burgundy overcast by midsummer. At maturity, arcing canes that often touch … hummingbirds love <em>Weigela</em>, and so do gardeners. For a plant that gives you so much to look at, they're very easy to care for. No particular disease or pest problems. No special soil requirements.No deadheading. …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
