Around 100 different species of butterflies call Illinois home. Unfortunately, our fluttering insect populations have declined over the years due to environmental stresses like drought and loss of habitat. Butterflies are a lot like us, they need food, water, and a safe, comfortable space to...
With chilly spring mornings nearly in the rearview, it is time to get busy in the garden.
As the weather warms, satisfy the garden itch by preparing the ground for planting, creating a garden plan, and planting a crop of cool-season vegetables on Mother’s Day weekend.
Preparing the ground...
Volunteers selflessly give their free time for the betterment of the community.
From answering client questions about gardening challenges, providing environmental education programs to adults and youth, removing invasive species in natural lands, or growing healthy food for those in need,...
There are few activities more spring-like than a walk in the woods.
Discover the emerging flowers (ephemerals) this season in a local nature preserve.
A common spring species known as ramps (Allium tricoccum) has the distinction of being both an ephemeral and a vegetable. Ramps, also known...
Life can be stressful.
Even the neighbor who plans perfectly feels hardships of life from time-to-time.
With a bundle of fresh flowers, the mood of friends or strangers is guaranteed to be uplifted, according to university research. In fact, this little dose of nature actually affects our...
Growing mushrooms is a time-honored tradition.
Cultivation of shiitake mushrooms on hardwood logs dates back at least 1000 years in Japan. After button mushrooms, the shiitake mushroom is the most commonly cultivated mushroom in the world, according to Cornell University. Despite their high retail...
With the spring gardening season beginning, imaginations run wild with gardening possibilities. Some gardeners may ponder the complexities of an age-old practice that is regaining popularity in recent years – companion planting. How do certain combinations of plants benefit from being planted...
Every gardener has a favorite plant—or plants.
These prized possessions may offer unmatched multi-season beauty, survive tough conditions, or be a rare plant that you have searched the garden centers every year to find. Your connection with a special plant is unique. The joy of this plant cannot...
In a season of chilly air and cold soil, gardeners cannot help but catch “spring fever”. The remedy for most is trays of soil and tiny seeds – a start of the summer garden – but transplanting those seedlings is a long way off. If plant propagation by seed is too much to remember, try growing plants...
The delicate act of arranging fresh flowers is a joyful art.
Each bloom and sprig of foliage receives special consideration when creating an arrangement as beautiful and unique as the recipient. Local florists are already hastily preparing arrangements for the upcoming Valentine’s Day rush. Aside...
