… 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
… Attention orchid fans: our vanilla orchid is blooming in the Tropical Greenhouse at the Chicago Botanic Garden. It’s a rare occurrence in the wild—and in a greenhouse. Wade Wheatley, assistant horticulturist, seized the moment to hand-pollinate the flower. Why hand pollinate? In hopes of producing a vanilla bean. Yes, the fruit of a vanilla orchid is used to make pure vanilla extract, which flavors many foods we enjoy. Vanilla vines typically begin to …
Type: Blog
… as some of us in the Second City affectionately call it: Second Winter—can test our ability to feel connected to anything living, including each other and ourselves. When we are stuck inside, our mental … Flower Mandala Sun Catchers Loosely translated from Sanskrit to mean “circle,” a mandala is a symbol that represents wholeness and reminds us of the connectivity of all things in the …
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
… spanning the border between Siberia and Mongolia, but in fact it's native from eastern Russia to Korea. The fluffy white flowers are densely packed on arching racemes that can reach 6-feet … of tightly packed flowers, often followed by conspicuous berries. NOTE: Berries are poisonous to people and rabbits; harmless to birds and butterflies. …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
… that give 'Misty Blue' white baneberry its garden value throughout the growing season. Add to that the graceful racemes of white flowers in the late spring, followed by clusters of white … of tightly packed flowers, often followed by conspicuous berries. NOTE: Berries are poisonous to people and rabbits; harmless to birds and butterflies. …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
… are small flowering trees that provide a showy display in the spring landscape for 1 to 2 weeks. In addition to the eye-catching buds and flowers, their foliage, habit, and fruit make them attractive plants … by humans but are beloved by birds. Most crabapples benefit from modest amounts of pruning to eliminate water sprouts and improve airflow. …
Type: Garden Guide Plant
