If you’ve grown veggies before, you understand the satisfaction of harvesting the fruits of your labor. But you also know the struggles of dealing with insect pests intent on consuming the harvest for you. Each type of vegetable is prone to certain insect pests, so it’s crucial to scout your crops to minimize their impact regularly. Today we’ll look at common insect pests and how to manage them in your garden. Keep in mind these are only some insect pests you may encounter, and most insect species are beneficial for your plants. To learn more about insect pests, head to […]
Author: James Johnsen
The Beauty of Orchids
The orchid year has already begun and throughout Wisconsin, a variety of late spring and early summer native orchids are now in bloom. Wisconsin boasts up to 40 species of native wild orchids, along with one exotic, invasive orchid species. These can be found in many areas of the state. The orchids of late spring and early summer are a beautiful and elegant bunch. To find most of them, you must be willing to explore deep into some of our thickest tamarack and spruce bogs, filled with ticks and mosquitoes. And, of course, you’ll likely get pretty wet. If you’re […]
Selecting Shrubs for Colorful Foliage
As I look through my old garden photos, I’m reminded of the impact of foliage plants on the landscape. Shrubs, in particular, can provide you with color that continues to draw interest. The color of these shrubs is often amplified by their unique leaf texture or plant structure. Today, we’ll look at shrubs that offer exceptional color on the leaves. In addition to striking foliage, many of these shrubs have attractive flowers. These shrubs range from small and compact to large and more spreading. Bush Honeysuckle (Diervilla) A spreading shrub that fills in large sites and is often used to […]
Create Sizzling Summer Container Displays
Summer is quickly approaching, so it’s time to decorate your outdoor spaces with plants. Containers are a fantastic way to display plants on your patio, balcony, or any outdoor space, giving you a close view of gorgeous flowers and unique foliage. Before you head to the nursery and stock up on plants, it’s essential to have a plan for your pots. Container Goals Before summer begins, take a few moments to set goals for your container displays. Here are some questions to ask yourself: Design Elements When it comes to containers, plants are typically grouped into one of three categories, […]
Carrot Gardening Guide
Carrots, with their vibrant orange hue and crisp, earthy flavor, have long been a beloved staple in kitchens and gardens around the world. These versatile root vegetables not only add a burst of color and crunch to salads, stews, and stir-fries but also boast an array of health benefits. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a novice enthusiast, cultivating your own carrots can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. From selecting the right varieties to nurturing them through each stage of growth, the journey of growing carrots allows you to connect with the earth, witness nature’s wonders, and ultimately enjoy […]
Perennial Planting: How To Overcome Difficult Planting Sites
As gardeners, many of us have that one spot in the yard where no plant will grow except the weeds. It may be a dry site under a tree or a sandy area in full sun. While frustrating, this dilemma allows us to explore plant options we may not have considered. Perennials may appear delicate, but they can be problem solvers in challenging areas of the landscape. Let’s examine some difficult sites and the perennials that will thrive in them. 3 Types Of Challenging Plants Sites Dry Shade The term “dry shade” refers to an area primarily shaded with soil […]
Create A Monarch-Friendly Flower Garden
With the recent release of data from monarch colonies on their Mexican overwintering grounds, once again, monarch lovers were hit hard with bad news. From population estimates, monarch numbers overwintering in Mexico last winter have reportedly decreased again. Monarch lovers here in Wisconsin, therefore, must be more diligent than ever when it comes to planting host and nectar plants to help build numbers over the summer season. Monarch Population Each winter, on the cool mountain slopes of interior Mexico, researchers count monarchs as they cling to the trees in large, mostly dormant clusters. Estimates of both population and winter habitat […]
An Easy Guide For Planting Trees & Shrubs
Trees and shrubs can bring structure and beauty throughout the year if you’re starting a new landscape or adding to your existing property. These plants also provide ecological benefits for your landscape and the planet. Before planting, it’s crucial to understand planting techniques to ensure long-term success for your landscape. Why Proper Planting Is Essential Before we examine the specifics, let’s focus on why proper planting is essential for trees and shrubs. A common problem in landscapes is trees that are planted too deep. As a result, these trees often deteriorate from excess moisture around the stem or develop circling […]
Add Dimension To Your Garden With Summer-Blooming Bulbs
If you’ve been to a tropical place, you’ve likely seen plants that made you say, “I wish I could grow that.” Like many of you, I’ve had the same experience while enjoying tropical plants. However, many tropical plants can be grown here in the summer, and with a little extra care, you can overwinter them indoors. Summer bulbs deliver the excitement of the tropics to gardeners in warm and cool climates. They come in numerous sizes, shapes, and colors, making them useful in nearly any location. It’s important to remember some hardy bulbs also flower in summer. But today, we’ll […]
Blueberry Gardening Guide
Blueberries are a delicious and nutritious fruit that can be grown easily in many regions. Whether you are an experienced gardener or just starting out, growing your own blueberries can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Not only do they provide a bountiful harvest of sweet, juicy berries, but they also offer a host of health benefits, including antioxidants and vitamins. In this guide, we will cover the planting and maintenance to grow blueberries. Blueberry Quick Tips Blueberry Planting Guide When To Plant Blueberry Bushes Dormant, bareroot blueberries may be planted as soon as the ground can be worked in […]