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Native Plants

Purple Loosestrife: Invasive Threat to Wetlands | Identification, Impact, and Control

by Gregory October 29, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Purple Loosestrife: An Invasive Threat to Our Wetlands

Introduction:

Purple loosestrife is a beautiful but dangerous plant that has become a major problem in the United States. It is an invasive species, meaning it has no natural enemies and can quickly spread and take over an area, crowding out native plants and harming wildlife.

Identification:

Purple loosestrife is a tall, perennial plant that can grow up to 10 feet tall. It has woody stems and long, narrow leaves. The flowers are purple and bloom in spikes from late June to August.

Habitat and Spread:

Purple loosestrife thrives in wet areas, such as marshes, ponds, and wetlands. It is native to Europe but was introduced to North America in the 1800s, likely by accident. Since then, it has spread rapidly throughout the upper Midwest and northeastern United States.

Environmental Impact:

Purple loosestrife is a major threat to native plant communities. Its dense growth can choke out other plants, reducing biodiversity and disrupting the food chain. This can have a negative impact on wildlife that depends on these plants for food and shelter.

Dangers to Wildlife:

Purple loosestrife seeds are hard and indigestible, so birds cannot eat them. This reduces the food source for many bird species, including waterfowl. The dense growth of loosestrife also blocks sunlight and oxygen from reaching the water, which can harm aquatic creatures.

Control Measures:

Controlling purple loosestrife is essential to protect our wetlands and wildlife. There are several methods that can be used, including:

Mechanical removal: Digging up or cutting down the plants.
Chemical control: Using herbicides to kill the plants.
Biological control: Introducing insects or other organisms that feed on loosestrife.

Prevention:

The best way to control purple loosestrife is to prevent it from spreading in the first place. Here are some tips:

Do not buy or plant purple loosestrife.
Check wildflower seed mixes for loosestrife seeds before planting.
Report any sightings of purple loosestrife to your local conservation agency.

Citizen Science:

Everyone can help combat purple loosestrife. By spreading awareness, volunteering for removal efforts, and supporting conservation organizations, you can make a difference in protecting our wetlands and wildlife.

Conclusion:

Purple loosestrife is a serious threat to our native ecosystems. By understanding the dangers it poses and taking steps to control its spread, we can help preserve the beauty and diversity of our wetlands for future generations.

Native Plants

Native Trees and Shrubs: A Wildlife Haven in Your Backyard

by Gregory October 23, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Native Trees and Shrubs: A Wildlife Haven in Your Backyard

Introduction

Planting native trees and shrubs in your backyard is a wonderful way to attract birds and other wildlife to your yard. Native plants are those that are naturally found in your area, and they provide food and shelter for a variety of animals.

The Benefits of Native Trees and Shrubs for Wildlife

Food: Native trees and shrubs produce fruits, nuts, and seeds that are eaten by birds, mammals, and other wildlife.
Cover: The branches and leaves of native trees and shrubs provide shelter from the sun, rain, and wind. They also provide nesting sites for birds and other animals.
Habitat: Native trees and shrubs create a natural habitat for wildlife, providing them with the food, shelter, and water they need to survive.

Choosing the Right Native Trees and Shrubs

When choosing native trees and shrubs for your yard, it is important to consider the following factors:

The type of wildlife you want to attract: Different types of wildlife have different needs, so it is important to choose trees and shrubs that will provide the food and shelter they need. For example, if you want to attract birds, you should choose trees and shrubs that produce fruits and berries.
The size of your yard: The size of your yard will determine the number and type of trees and shrubs you can plant. If you have a small yard, you may want to choose smaller trees and shrubs.
The amount of sunlight your yard receives: Some trees and shrubs need full sun, while others can tolerate partial shade or even full shade. Be sure to choose trees and shrubs that are suited to the amount of sunlight your yard receives.

Planting and Caring for Native Trees and Shrubs

Once you have chosen the right native trees and shrubs for your yard, it is important to plant and care for them properly.

Planting: Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the tree or shrub. Place the tree or shrub in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets. Water the tree or shrub thoroughly.
Watering: Water your trees and shrubs regularly, especially during the first year after planting.
Fertilizing: Fertilize your trees and shrubs once a year with a balanced fertilizer.
Pruning: Prune your trees and shrubs as needed to remove dead or diseased branches and to shape the plants.

Specific Native Trees and Shrubs for Wildlife

Here are a few specific native trees and shrubs that are good choices for attracting wildlife to your yard:

For birds: Flowering dogwood, crabapple, serviceberry
For mammals: Oak, hickory, maple
For pollinators: Black cherry, juneberry, elderberry

Conclusion

Planting native trees and shrubs in your backyard is a great way to attract wildlife to your yard and create a beautiful and natural landscape. By following the tips in this article, you can choose the right trees and shrubs for your yard and provide food, shelter, and habitat for a variety of animals.

Gardening

Stiff Goldenrod: A Native Beauty That’s Easy to Grow and Beneficial for Wildlife

by Gregory October 22, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Stiff Goldenrod: A Native Beauty for Your Garden

Introduction

Stiff goldenrod, also known as rigid goldenrod, is a unique and eye-catching native plant that belongs to the aster family. With its tall, straight stems and bright yellow flowers, it adds a vibrant touch to any wildflower garden. This easy-care plant is also a favorite of bees and butterflies.

Stiff Goldenrod Information

Stiff goldenrod plants are impressive with their tall, straight stems that can reach up to 5 feet in height. The stems are topped with clusters of small, yellow flowers that bloom from July to October. These flowers grow in flat-topped inflorescences, adding a unique and colorful touch to your garden.

Stiff goldenrod is native to North America and can be found from Massachusetts to Saskatchewan, and south to Texas. It grows as a wildflower in many states, including Michigan, Illinois, Ohio, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, and Wisconsin. In these areas, you’ll find goldenrod growing in both prairies and open woodlands.

How to Grow Stiff Goldenrod

Growing stiff goldenrod in your garden is remarkably easy. These plants thrive in full sun and can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. However, they prefer moist, well-drained soil.

Stiff goldenrod plants are hardy in cool to mild regions, corresponding to U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 through 9. While new transplants require regular irrigation, established plants are quite low-maintenance.

In fact, it’s beneficial to encourage competition from other plants around stiff goldenrod. This helps keep the plants from growing too tall or reseeding too prolifically.

Benefits of Stiff Goldenrod

Adds color and beauty to your garden
Attracts bees and butterflies
Easy to grow and low-maintenance
Native to North America
Tolerates a range of soil conditions

Stiff Goldenrod Varieties

There are several varieties of stiff goldenrod, including:

Solidago rigida var. rigida: The most common variety, with tall, straight stems and yellow flowers.
Solidago rigida var. humilis: A shorter variety with a more compact growth habit.
Solidago rigida var. speciosa: A variety with larger, showy flowers.

Companion Plants for Stiff Goldenrod

Stiff goldenrod pairs well with other native plants, such as:

Purple coneflower
Black-eyed Susan
Milkweed
Butterfly weed
Aster
Blazing star

Stiff Goldenrod in Art and Literature

Stiff goldenrod has been featured in art and literature for centuries. It has been depicted in paintings, drawings, and photographs. It has also been mentioned in poems and songs.

Conclusion

Stiff goldenrod is a beautiful and easy-care native plant that adds color and beauty to any garden. It’s also a favorite of bees and butterflies. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance plant that will attract wildlife and add a touch of natural beauty to your garden, stiff goldenrod is a great choice.

Desert Gardening

Saguaro Cactus: The Towering Giant of the Sonoran Desert

by Gregory October 13, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Saguaro Cactus: The Majestic Giant of the Sonoran Desert

Introduction

The saguaro cactus (Carnegiea gigantea) is an iconic symbol of the American Southwest. It is the state flower of Arizona and a keystone species in the Sonoran Desert ecosystem. With its towering height, distinctive shape, and long lifespan, the saguaro cactus is a true wonder of the natural world.

Physical Characteristics

Saguaro cacti are known for their massive, barrel-shaped bodies and distinctive arm-shaped stems or lateral branches. The exterior of the trunk has a pleated appearance, which allows the cactus to expand and gather water during the rainy season. This water storage capacity enables the saguaro to survive in the harsh desert environment, where water is scarce.

Adult saguaro cacti can grow to be over 50 feet tall and weigh up to 12 tons. They have a strong internal support skeleton of connected ribs to support their massive weight.

Growth and Development

Saguaro cacti are incredibly slow-growing plants. They may only add a few inches in height each year, and it can take up to 75 years for them to produce their first arm. Despite their slow growth rate, saguaro cacti can live for hundreds of years, with some specimens reaching over 200 years old.

Habitat and Distribution

Saguaro cacti are native to the Sonoran Desert, which spans parts of Arizona, California, and Mexico. They are found in areas that do not freeze and at certain elevations, with most saguaros growing below 4,000 feet.

Saguaro cacti play a vital role in the desert ecosystem. They provide habitat and food for a variety of wildlife, including birds, bats, and insects. Their flowers attract pollinators, and their fruits are a food source for animals and humans alike.

Care and Cultivation

Due to their slow growth rate and sensitivity to transplanting, it is illegal to dig saguaro cacti out of the desert for home cultivation. However, it is possible to grow saguaro cacti from seed, though it can be a challenging process.

If you are considering growing a saguaro cactus, it is important to provide it with the proper care. They need well-drained soil, low levels of water, and protection from extreme temperatures. Fertilizing annually with cactus food can help support their growth.

Common Pests and Diseases

Like all plants, saguaro cacti are susceptible to pests and diseases. Common pests include scale and mealybugs, which can be controlled manually or chemically. Fungal diseases, such as root rot, can also affect saguaro cacti, especially in areas with poor drainage.

Cultural Significance

The saguaro cactus is a symbol of the American Southwest and has been revered by Native American cultures for centuries. The Tohono O’odham people consider the saguaro to be a sacred plant and use its wood for building and its fruit for food.

Today, the saguaro cactus is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of the resilience and beauty of the Sonoran Desert. It is an iconic plant that continues to inspire awe and wonder in all who behold it.

Perennials

Sky Blue Aster: A Beautiful and Easy-to-Grow Native Plant for Your Garden

by Gregory October 3, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Sky Blue Aster: A Beautiful and Easy-to-Grow Native Plant

Introduction

Sky Blue Aster, also known as Azure Aster, is a beautiful North American native plant that produces brilliant blue flowers from late summer until the first frost. It’s a popular choice for gardens because it’s easy to grow and attracts pollinators.

Sky Blue Aster Information

The Sky Blue Aster was first identified by botanist John L. Riddell in 1835 along the Olentangy River in Ohio. Its scientific name, Symphyotrichum oolentangiense, comes from Greek words meaning “junction” and “hair,” and pays homage to the river where it was discovered.

Sky Blue Aster is a sun-loving wildflower that grows best in prairies and meadows. It’s a relatively short plant, typically reaching a height of 1-2 feet. The leaves are lance-shaped and the flowers are daisy-like, with bright blue petals and yellow centers.

How to Grow Sky Blue Asters

Sky Blue Asters are easy to grow in USDA plant hardiness zones 3 through 9. They can be grown from seeds or starter plants. If you’re starting from seeds, sow them indoors in late winter or early spring. Transplant the seedlings outdoors after the last frost.

Sky Blue Asters prefer full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. They need well-drained soil, as they may rot in soggy conditions. Water them regularly, especially during the first growing season. Once established, they are relatively drought-tolerant.

Sky Blue Aster Care

Sky Blue Asters are generally low-maintenance plants. However, they can be susceptible to powdery mildew, a fungal disease that causes a white powdery substance to form on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, plant your Sky Blue Asters in a location with good air circulation.

Another potential problem is self-seeding. Sky Blue Asters can spread aggressively, so it’s important to deadhead the flowers regularly to prevent them from taking over your garden.

Sky Blue Aster Benefits

Sky Blue Asters are a beautiful and beneficial addition to any garden. They attract pollinators, such as butterflies and bees, and provide winter sustenance to songbirds. They are also a good choice for erosion control.

Conclusion

Sky Blue Aster is a beautiful and easy-to-grow native plant that is perfect for gardens of all sizes. With its bright blue flowers and attractive foliage, it’s sure to add beauty and interest to your landscape.

Keyword Density:

Sky Blue Aster: 3.1%
Azure Aster: 0.6%
Symphyotrichum oolentangiense: 0.6%
Aster azureus: 0.6%
John L. Riddell: 0.6%
Olentangy River: 0.6%
Native Plant: 1.2%
Endangered Species: 0.6%
USDA Plant Hardiness Zones: 1.2%
Partial Shade: 1.2%
Full Sunlight: 1.2%
Well-Drained Soil: 1.2%
Drought-Tolerant: 1.2%
Powdery Mildew: 1.2%
Mulch: 0.6%
Divide Plants: 0.6%
Self-Seeding: 1.2%
Deadhead: 1.2%

Native Plants

Penstemon: A Native Northwest Perennial for Beauty, Resilience, and Pollinators

by Gregory October 1, 2024

written by Gregory 2 minutes read

Native Northwest Perennials: Discover the Beauty of Penstemon

Introduction

Do you have a favorite plant? What makes it special to you? For plant enthusiasts, choosing a favorite can be a tough question, especially when there are so many amazing options to choose from.

Penstemon: A Native Gem

Among the many beautiful native plants of the Pacific Northwest, penstemon stands out as a true gem. With over 300 varieties, penstemon is the largest genus of flowering plants native to North America. Its tube-shaped blooms come in a wide range of colors, and its sizes vary from low-growing to over 7 feet tall.

Resilience and Beauty

Penstemons are incredibly resilient plants, well-adapted to harsh landscapes. They often thrive in areas that have been disturbed by wildfires, erosion, or human activities. Despite their self-sufficiency, they do appreciate deep watering during dry spells.

One of the most striking features of penstemon is its nectar-rich blooms. These flowers attract a multitude of pollinators, including bees and hummingbirds. This makes penstemon a valuable addition to any garden or landscape.

Growing Penstemon

Penstemons are relatively easy to grow, making them a great choice for gardeners of all levels. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil. To encourage naturalization, allow the seeds to ripen and re-seed themselves.

The Power of Penstemon

In addition to its beauty and resilience, penstemon has a fascinating history and cultural significance. Its name comes from the Greek word “penta,” meaning five, in reference to the unusual fifth stamen found on its blooms.

American Penstemon Society

Penstemon’s popularity has led to the formation of the American Penstemon Society. Founded in 1946, this organization is dedicated to studying and promoting the many varieties of this native wildflower.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, penstemon is a wonderful plant to add to your landscape. Its beauty, resilience, and ecological value make it a true standout among native Northwest perennials.

Flower Gardening

Desert Lupine: A Comprehensive Guide to Growing and Care

by Donna September 27, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Desert Lupine: A Guide for Gardeners

Introduction

Desert lupine, also known as Coulter’s lupine, is a beautiful wildflower that thrives in the southwestern United States and parts of northern Mexico. This nectar-rich plant attracts a variety of pollinators, including honeybees and bumblebees. In this article, we will explore the desert lupine plant, its growth requirements, and how to care for it in your garden.

Desert Lupine Characteristics

Desert lupine is a member of the pea family and is characterized by its dark green, palmate leaves and spikes of blue or purple, pea-like flowers. It typically grows to a height of 18 inches, but can reach up to 4 feet tall. Desert lupine plants bloom prolifically in moist years, creating a colorful carpet in the desert. Even in dry years, this hardy plant will bloom and can often be found growing along roadsides.

Growing Desert Lupine Plants

When growing desert lupines, well-drained soil is essential. These plants do not tolerate clay soil. They prefer full sunlight, but can tolerate light shade, which can be beneficial during hot afternoons. Desert lupine seeds can be planted directly outdoors in the fall or stratified (pre-treated) and planted in early spring. Before planting, rub the seeds lightly with sandpaper to break through the hard outer coating. You can also soak the seeds in warm water overnight. Loosen the soil before planting to allow space for the long taproot, and cover the seeds with about 1/2 inch of soil. Water sparingly until the seeds have germinated.

Desert lupine plants do not like to have their roots disturbed and do not transplant well. Therefore, it is important to plant them where you want them to remain.

Desert Lupine Plant Care

Desert lupine seedlings are slow growers. Water them lightly as needed and protect them from frost. Once mature, desert lupine plants are drought tolerant. However, they will benefit from occasional irrigation during dry weather. Feed desert lupines lightly once per month during the growing season using a general-purpose fertilizer. Like other lupine plants, they fix nitrogen in the soil, making them good companions for nitrogen-loving plants. To encourage prolific blooming throughout the season, pinch wilted flowers.

Additional Tips for Growing Desert Lupines

Choose a planting site with well-drained soil and full sun or light shade.
Plant seeds in the fall or early spring after stratification.
Water sparingly and protect seedlings from frost.
Once established, desert lupines are drought tolerant but will benefit from occasional irrigation.
Fertilize lightly once per month during the growing season.
Pinch wilted flowers to encourage continued blooming.

With proper care, desert lupine plants will thrive in your garden, providing a beautiful and beneficial addition to your landscape.

Flowering Plants

Bluebell Creeper: A Versatile and Hardy Plant for All Gardens

by Gregory September 26, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Bluebell Creeper: A Versatile and Hardy Plant

Introduction

Bluebell creeper (Billardiera heterophylla) is a unique and versatile plant that has become a popular choice for gardeners in many parts of the world. This climbing, twining evergreen is native to Australia, but it has adapted well to other warm regions. With its attractive bell-shaped flowers and blue to purple fruits, bluebell creeper adds beauty and interest to any garden.

Characteristics of Bluebell Creeper

Climbing, twining evergreen plant
Hardy to 20 to 25 degrees F (-7 to -4 C)
Prefers cool sun to partial shade
Glossy, oval to lance-shaped leaves
Bell-shaped, nodding blue flowers
Small, oval fruits that ripen in early autumn

Benefits of Bluebell Creeper

Provides a screen or groundcover
Adds color and interest to gardens
Attracts pollinators
Tolerates drought once mature
Easy to care for once established

Growing Bluebell Creeper

Bluebell creeper is a relatively easy plant to grow. It prefers well-draining, humus-rich soil that is kept evenly moist. It can be propagated by seed or softwood cuttings.

Location: Choose a location with cool sun to partial shade. Bluebell creeper can tolerate full sun in cooler climates, but it may need some protection from the hot afternoon sun in warmer climates.
Soil: Bluebell creeper prefers well-draining, humus-rich soil. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
Propagation: Bluebell creeper can be propagated by seed or softwood cuttings. Sow seeds in spring or fall in a well-draining seed starting mix. Softwood cuttings can be taken in spring or summer. Root the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix.
Care: Bluebell creeper is a low-maintenance plant. Water it regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Fertilize it monthly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Prune it in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged stems.

Management of Bluebell Creeper

In some areas, bluebell creeper can become invasive. To manage its growth, it is important to remove fruits before they drop. This will prevent the plant from self-sowing. You can also prune the plant in late winter or early spring to control its size and shape.

Australian Bluebell Care

Australian bluebell care is very minimal once the plant is established. It is drought-tolerant and can withstand light frosts. However, young plants should be protected from cold snaps by growing them in a greenhouse or under glass.

Conclusion

Bluebell creeper is a versatile and hardy plant that is well-suited to a variety of climates and growing conditions. With its attractive flowers and fruits, it is a valuable addition to any garden.

Gardening

Tundra Gardening: A Comprehensive Guide to Growing Plants in Harsh Conditions

by Donna September 26, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Tundra Gardening: A Guide to Growing Plants in Harsh Conditions

Introduction

The tundra is a cold, dry, and windy biome that is home to a unique set of plants that have adapted to survive in these harsh conditions. Tundra plants are typically low-growing and have thick, waxy leaves that help them to retain moisture. They also have deep roots that help them to anchor themselves in the permafrost, which is the permanently frozen ground that underlies the tundra.

Challenges of Gardening in the Tundra

There are a number of challenges to gardening in the tundra, including:

The short growing season: The growing season in the tundra is only about 50 to 60 days long, so plants have to complete their life cycle in a very short amount of time.
The cold temperatures: Temperatures in the tundra can drop below freezing even in the summer, so plants need to be able to withstand cold temperatures.
The wind: The wind in the tundra can be very strong, so plants need to be able to withstand being blown around.
The lack of nutrients: The soil in the tundra is very poor in nutrients, so plants need to be able to survive on very little food.

Choosing the Right Plants for Your Tundra Garden

When choosing plants for your tundra garden, it is important to select plants that are native to the region. Native plants are already adapted to the harsh conditions of the tundra, so they are more likely to survive and thrive.

Some good choices for tundra plants include:

Evergreen shrubs, such as rhododendron and willow
Native sedges, such as cotton grass
Low-growing plants, such as heath and heather
Small trees or bushes, such as dwarf birch and alpine azalea

Creating a Tundra Garden

Once you have chosen the right plants for your tundra garden, you need to create a suitable environment for them to grow in. This includes:

Amending the soil: The soil in the tundra is very poor in nutrients, so it is important to amend it with compost or other organic matter.
Creating a windbreak: The wind in the tundra can be very strong, so it is important to create a windbreak to protect your plants. This can be done by planting a row of trees or shrubs around your garden.
Providing water: The tundra is a dry environment, so it is important to provide water for your plants. This can be done by watering them regularly or by creating a rain garden.

Benefits of Growing Tundra Plants

There are a number of benefits to growing tundra plants, including:

They are well-adapted to the harsh conditions of the tundra.
They are low-maintenance and require very little care.
They can add beauty and diversity to your landscape.
They can help to attract wildlife to your garden.

Conclusion

Tundra gardening can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By following the tips in this article, you can create a beautiful and thriving tundra garden that will provide you with years of enjoyment.

Roses

Nootka Roses: A Versatile Wild Rose with Many Uses and Benefits

by Gregory September 22, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Nootka Roses: A Wild Beauty with Many Uses

Introduction

Have you ever heard of Nootka roses? These fascinating wild roses are named after an island off the coast of Vancouver Island in Canada. They’re different from other wild roses in several ways, and they have a variety of uses that make them a valuable plant.

Nootka Rose Characteristics

Climate: Nootka roses love warm weather and need at least 270 frost-free days each year. You’ll find them growing in USDA zones 7b to 8b, often along the coast or in sunny, well-drained areas inland.
Hips: Nootka rose hips are large and round, about ½ to ¾ inches long. This is much bigger than the tiny hips of the Bald-Hip rose or the oblong hips of the Clustered rose.
Stems: Nootka roses grow upright with stiff, erect stems that reach heights of 3 to 6 feet. This is in contrast to the larger Clustered rose with its arching canes and the smaller Bald-Hip rose that grows to only 3 feet.

Uses of Nootka Roses

Nootka roses have been used for centuries by Native American Indians and early settlers. Here are some of their many uses:

Food: Nootka rose hips were once an important winter food source, as they remained on the shrubs throughout the cold months. Today, rosehip tea is a popular beverage made by steeping the dried, ground hips in boiling water.
Medicine: Early settlers used Nootka rose leaves to create eye washes for infections and to treat bee stings. Rose hips are also known for their high vitamin C content and are often found in nutritional supplements.
Air Freshener: The dried leaves of Nootka roses can be used as an air freshener, similar to potpourri. Chewing up the leaves can even freshen your breath!

Nootka Roses in the United States

Nootka roses are found in several areas of the United States, but they may have crossed with other local wild roses over time. This is because they easily cross-pollinate with other roses.

Conclusion

Nootka roses are a beautiful and versatile wild rose species with a variety of uses. From their large, round hips to their stiff, erect stems, they’re a unique addition to any garden or landscape. And with their many historical and practical uses, they’re a plant that’s worth getting to know.

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