Category Archives: general nature
Clear-cutting is an important strategy for forestry management
It seems most folks are put off by clearcutting. Their emotions tell them that what may look unsightly is also unhealthy. In some cases they might be right, but there are reasons some places are harvested that way. The species … Continue reading
Ragweed can be more than a fall problem
A few days ago I overheard someone complaining about goldenrod causing her allergies. I wanted to say something but felt it was prudent to keep my mouth shut. Uninvited conversations seldom end well. The truth is that goldenrod has very … Continue reading
Field bindweed and morning glory are pretty weeds that destroy ecosystems
Both have beautiful petunia-like flowers. Both are aggressive vines. Both are in the sweet potato family. Both are a menace in crop fields, and both invade non-crop areas. Field bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis) is perennial and morning glory (Ipomoea purpurea and … Continue reading
Hop Hornbeam is a curious native tree with hard wood
Nearly everyone wants to know about native trees. Hop hornbeam (Ostrya virginiana) is a member of the birch family and is quite adaptable around here. It gets its name because its clusters of seeds look like the hops used to … Continue reading
Here in the south, fall is a great time to landscape
We are all accustomed to planting in the spring. There are many reasons for this, but is it really the best time for long term plant survival? I guess that depends on a lot of things. There is no easy … Continue reading
Hummingbirds can be lured to shady places
Last week I profiled some sun loving plants that attract hummingbirds. This week I’ll discuss my favorite shade dwellers that hummingbirds adore. There aren’t as many, since producing flowers requires energy. There’s less sunlight, so usually that means less spectacular … Continue reading
Bald cypress has far more uses than swampland conservation
Bald cypress (Taxodium distichum) is a great swamp conservation plant. It helps filter sediment so they don’t enter our waterways. Floodwater slows down, causing sediment to settle and not enter the rivers. This majestic tree is one of relatively few … Continue reading
Amaryllis aren’t just for indoor viewing
I won’t deny that amaryllis (Hippeastrum sp.) is one of the most striking flowering houseplants. Huge clusters of flowers are dramatic and that’s why people pay so much for a single bulb. Most people don’t realize those huge bulbs are … Continue reading
Bats have far more positives than negatives
Many people see bats fluttering around at dusk and get nervous. Some get downright scared. There’s no need for this hysteria. Bats fill an important role in the ecosystem and provide us comfort at the same time. I wish I … Continue reading
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