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Why are there so many yellowjackets in the fall? Two yellowjackets feeding on fruit.

Why are there so many yellowjackets in the fall?

Despite the bad name they get, yellowjackets (Vespula spp.) are beneficial insects. The larvae are meat eaters, consuming caterpillars and other insects (and occasionally carrion) that adults have captured and brought back to the nest. Adults, on the other hand, primarily feed on flower...
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Smut in the garden image of ear of corn with gray to black growths in cluster

Smut in the garden

For the most part, we think of fungal infections as undesirable and cause adverse effects on plants. Fungal pathogens can destroy crops, weaken and deform plant parts, or kill the host plant entirely. Fungal pathogens cause billions of dollars of economic loss annually. Within this context, as we...
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Teasel: An invasive species coming to a roadside near you?

Teasel: An invasive species coming to a roadside near you?

If you’ve driven along any interstates or highways in Illinois, there’s a good chance you’ve seen tall plants with spiky flower heads. Teasels have become an increasingly common sight across Illinois. While they may appear attractive, especially for cut flower arrangements, these troublesome plants...
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Pawpaw: America's tropical treasure pawpaw fruit in tree canopy leaves turning yellow

Pawpaw: America's tropical treasure

The time of year is nearing when the pawpaw (Asimina triloba) fruit will ripen and those lucky enough to have access to the fruit (and beat the wildlife to the ripened fruit) will enjoy a once-a-year delicacy. Those who have never been able to enjoy the fruit have time to search for a...
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Finished wood paneling with termite damage

Termite Troubles: Three tips for preventing infestations

Finding interesting insects is fun! At least for me. I enjoy observing the intricacies of most insects. However, there are a few creepy crawlies I do not want to see, especially in my house. What insect has been on my “Most Un-Wanted” list? Termites. When we bought our house a few years ago we...
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The duality of American pokeweed photo of bloom hanging in front of plant leaves

The duality of American pokeweed

Generally speaking, native plants are considered desirable since they support wildlife, can improve water quality while requiring less water themselves, are beautiful in the landscape, are generally more tolerant of climate conditions and soil types, and much more. However, from time to time, a...
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Norway maple leaves

Norway Maple Woes: Why it’s on my Do Not Plant list

We are stuck with the trees planted by those who came before us. At least I am at my house. Mostly because they are so expensive to cut down. One species I am left dealing with is Norway maple (Acer platinoides).Am I referring to the maple with purple leaves? Yes, that maple. The original...
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