Native Plants That Thrive in Heat
Unlike many introduced ornamental species, native plants don't rely on constant irrigation or frequent fertilization to survive the heat of summer. Continue reading "Native Plants That Thrive in Heat"
2023 DEC Saratoga Tree Nursery Sale
Well, it is that time of year again and the annual NYDEC Tree Sale is on! Select verities do sell out quickly so make sure you have your order ready to go on January 3rd. The last day to order is May 12th and they will contact you with pick-up/shipping information. The great news is […] Continue reading "2023 DEC Saratoga Tree Nursery Sale"
Wild Cucumber
Echinocystis lobata is one of the many native vine plants here in New York. The vine gracefully grows up trees and over hedge rows with a mutual agreement so no harm is done to the supporting plant. As an annual, the vine itself only lives for one year so it won’t strangle a host plant. […] Continue reading "Wild Cucumber"
Jack in the Pulpit Highlight
Arisaema stewardsonii is typically thought of as a spring ephemeral since that is when it blooms. However, if one were to continue watching, a stunning seed head will form in the fall! While most homes are built on land that has been drained off, this swamp-loving plant will sometimes grace homeowners with more wet and shady […] Continue reading "Jack in the Pulpit Highlight"
Giant Yellow Hyssop Highlight
Hyssop is a popular plant to attract pollinators to their garden. However, the native Giant Yellow Hyssop is considered endangered here in New York. If you are looking to attract butterflies and hummingbirds to your garden then this is a must-have. Another great perk is that this one is deer resistant. Growing Conditions Place the […] Continue reading "Giant Yellow Hyssop Highlight"
Jewelweed Highlight
Jewelweed is another plant with “weed” in the common name and, while it may grow like a weed, there is so much more to this fantastic native plant! Spotted Jewelweed Impatiens capensis and Pale Jewelweed Impatiens pallida are the two species that live here in the Capital Region of New York. Make sure to add […] Continue reading "Jewelweed Highlight"
Spicebush Replaces Forsythia
Spicebush replaces Forsythia as a harbinger of Spring! Makes a great title even if it is a bit of a misnomer. Spicebush has been around for quite some time and because of that, it does so much more than make a seasonal privacy fence. Forsythia’s Rise in Popularity Now many of you may be wondering […] Continue reading "Spicebush Replaces Forsythia"
Asclepias
Also known as Milkweed, even though it is not a weed, but in fact a widely beneficial native plant. This plant puts out leaves in early spring but doesn’t bloom until the summer months. In the fall watch for the seed pods to burst open in a dazzling show. Don’t forget to leave the stems […] Continue reading "Asclepias"
Hemlock
Once again it is winter and the evergreen trees are taking center stage. The hemlock drops needles too much making it not a prized Christmas tree however our native hemlock looks beautiful on the snowy landscape. Tsuga canadensis has provided much-needed shelter for example the Ruffed Grouse, and food for wildlife such as the porcupine […] Continue reading "Hemlock"