People who complain about bumblebees flying about under the eaves of their homes are probably being annoyed by carpenter bees. Carpenter bees resemble bumblebees in both size and appearance, but are not social insects... More … [Read more...]
Managing the Tick Problem
Ticks have fast become the pest of greatest personal health concern to gardeners and outdoor people of all stripes. With good reason. They are everywhere, hard to detect and can carry debilitating, even deadly diseases. While there is no silver … [Read more...]
So, I’m Not Alone, Eh?
Apparently, deer-eaten plants is an even worse issue than I thought… and it’s one that seems to bring out a lot of passion, compassion, and empathy. Lots of fellow gardeners wrote not only to offer tips and experience-driven advice, but to say how … [Read more...]
Invasive tick is ‘here to stay,’ and here’s where it could spread next
An invasive tick species, new to the U.S., has already popped up in nine states, and a new study suggests that the species could spread much further. This tick, called the Asian longhorned tick (Haemaphysalis longicornis), is native to Asia and was … [Read more...]
A Close Look at Those Hard Working Woodpeckers
“I’m mad for woodpeckers,” I wrote, and Stephen Shunk wrote back: “Mad for woodpeckers is a very good thing.” I suspect if you are not already, that by the end of this story and podcast, you’ll be mad for them, too, and positively amazed at their … [Read more...]
Nandina Berries Kill Birds
Nandina is a popular garden shrub used through the U.S. It is non-native, and considered invasive in some states. While the berries are showy and last for months, they have a serious side effect: they’re toxic to … [Read more...]
Attract Birds with Dwarf Conifers
When it comes to attracting birds, there is a guaranteed recipe for success. Birds are attracted to a backyard that provides the tempting trio of food, shelter and nesting sites. And what’s a great way to offer all … [Read more...]
Fall Garden Care for Pollinators
Doug Tallamy’s seminal work in backyard ecology, the book Bringing Nature Home, implored gardeners to think about how their landscapes are viewed by the bugs and birds that rely on plants for survival. Read more about Fall Garden Care for … [Read more...]