New University of Minnesota research suggests that seeding native plants alongside invasive removal efforts may turn the tide in the battle against buckthorn. Recently published in Ecological Engineering, researchers show that heavily seeding native grasses, like Virginia wildrye, alongside buckthorn removal efforts greatly reduces the number and size of new buckthorn trying to reclaim the site. […] Continue reading "Good News on Buckthorn Control"
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing protection for one of the nation’s most beloved species — the monarch butterfly — and is encouraging the public to be part of its recovery. The Service is seeking public input on a proposal to list the species as threatened with species-specific protections. Public comments will be […] Continue reading "Monarch Butterfly Proposed for Endangered Species Act Protection"
Goldenrod belongs to the genus Solidago and encompasses over 100 species native to North America. Goldenrods host 104 species of caterpillars and 42 pollen-specialist bee species. The caterpillars are also important protein sources for many birds, especially for their young. Goldenrod’s nectar-rich flowers are a favorite among pollinators, including bees, butterflies, wasps and other beneficial […] Continue reading "Goldenrod – An Important Keystone plant"
If you’re a fan of monarch butterflies, meadow blazing star would be a great addition to your garden. Continue reading "Plant of the Month: Meadow Blazing Star"
Yellowjackets often come to mind whenever a person hears the word wasp; evoking images of ruined picnics and carcasses floating in drinks. In a recent study comparing peoples attitudes toward wasps and bees, the top five wasp descriptors were: sting, annoying, pain, nest and dangerous. See: “Why we love bees and hate wasps” However, the social […] Continue reading "In Defense of Wasps"
We all know that planting native plants, reducing chemical use and replacing turfgrass are the best ways to help protect and restore biodiversity and nurture wildlife on our properties. Here are a few more steps you can take in your yard to help the natural world. Your yard can make a difference! Reduce landscape lighting as […] Continue reading "Sustainable Landscaping"
Summer is a great time of year to visit local native/pollinator gardens to see a wide variety of sustainable landscape designs. In the Milwaukee area, there are plenty of gardens for inspiration. Some of the spaces are all native plantings; while others incorporate natives into more traditional landscapes. Here are a few spaces that we […] Continue reading "Need Design Inspiration? Visit Some Local Gardens!"
It’s that time of year when the “No Mow May” yard signs start springing up like daffodils. But before you put away your mower for a month, take a look at the at recent scientific studies. Most have found that the benefits to pollinators are negligible. In fact, for most lawns it is more harmful […] Continue reading "No Mow May – Does it really help pollinators?"
Just because the plant tag says “native” doesn’t mean it’s native to Southeast Wisconsin. If you aren’t that picky or if you’re planting with climate change in mind, a few plants from Illinois or Ohio aren’t a big deal. But, if you are aiming for a truly native garden or are just curious, there are […] Continue reading "Native or Not? "
Pussy willow is an early bloomer that provides nectar for pollinators, and habitat for songbirds. It is also is a host plant for Mourning Cloak and Viceroy butterflies. Hummingbirds use the soft furry catkins to build nests. Salix discolor is a dioecious species – male & female flowers are produced on separate plants. […] Continue reading "Plant of the Month: Pussy Willow"