Fall Planting Is Here!

Fall Planting 101 When it comes to planting in the landscape, many people ask what time of year is best. I tell people that every season has its pros and cons. Fall is a wonderful time to plant because the temperatures are cooler, plants are spending their energy on roots and preparation for winter, and they need less care overall. It is also a great time to shop garden centers for fall discounts. Here are a few things to keep in mind for fall planting: #1   Amend the soil. No matter what

Bag Those Worms!

Results of a Bagworm Infestation Bagworms are a damaging insect incognito. Shrubs and trees can become stripped of their foliage and needles in a very short period of time, especially if there is a large infestation. Unfortunately, infestations may not be noticed until after this has begun occurring and much damage has already been done. Trees and plants left untreated may be so severely damaged they end up dying. What is a Bagworm The Bagworm is a perennial insect that gets its name from

Gardening With A Purpose

Pollinator Gardens One of my favorite things about gardening is creating an environment that is not only beautiful but also pollinator friendly.  A pollinator garden is a garden that is primarily planted with flowers that provide nectar or pollen to support a diversity of bees, butterflies and other beneficial flower visitors.    There are several things you can do to create an effective and beautiful backyard pollinator garden.   Be sure to plant a variety of native trees, shrubs and flowers

Fungus Amungus

Fungus At this time of year, one of the most common questions gardeners ask is, “Why do my plants have spots and brown leaves?”  Is it too much water? Not enough water? Sun scorch? Insects? No need to panic! Your beloved hydrangea or rose bush, apple tree or clematis, for example, likely has a leaf spot caused by a fungus.  To put your mind at ease, fungus is a common problem that happens to even the most experienced gardeners, including myself. Nebraska’s July weather is part of the problem.

How to make Holiday Arrangements

How To Design a Holiday Outdoor Floral Arrangement Step 1 Fill your outdoor container with media. I like to use the left over soil from spring flower planting. If your container is empty then floral foam works great. Step 2 Add your THRILLER. These are the tall accents that go in the middle of the arrangements. I use birch poles/branches found at the local garden center. Other options include curly willow, red twig dogwood, or a small Christmas tree. Step 3 Add your FILLER. Spruce tips

Seasonal Needle Drop

Evergreen Seasonal Needle Drop Every year, evergreens experience a seasonal needle drop. This is normal to the plants life-cycle. Needles of conifers have varying life spans. The needles do not stay attached to the tree indefinitely. Many of the needles will turn yellow, then brown as they age, & then drop off after one to several years. With some species, this change can be gradual and with others this change can be more rapid. Although this can cause some concern - this is a very natural