Category Archives: Uncategorized
Clematis fills a niche but is often difficult to establish
Well established clematis vines are breathtaking when in bloom. Large showy flowers can adorn a mailbox, fence or lamp post and bring it alive. Hundreds of cultivars are available in a cornucopia of colors, sizes and blooming seasons. The problem … Continue reading
Feral cats are an overlooked invasive species
A few weeks ago I wrote about invasive species. Usually we think of plants when we use that term, but several animals fit the definition too. Domestic cats are a good example. My neighborhood is overrun with feral cats. There … Continue reading
Poppies are an old time finicky favorite
I often get asked about raising poppies. In my opinion they are among the most beautiful flowers. However, most types are difficult to establish, especially the large flowered types. I’ve seen clumps of poppies that were far older than me, … Continue reading
Explore every angle to combat mosquitoes
A few weeks ago I wrote about ways we could get the upper hand on mosquito populations. Eliminating their habitat is the best option. However, living in a region with ubiquitous standing water, that can be difficult. Many plants contain … Continue reading
Another school year has come and gone
High school graduation was last weekend. Every year I reflect not only upon the past school year, but the previous three as well. Some of these kids change so much going from freshmen to seniors. Teaching these young people can be challenging, … Continue reading
A countryside view of invasive plants from here to Maine
Memorial Day weekend I drove to Maine to attend my uncle’s funeral. I made a conscious effort to note the roadside flora along the 900 mile trip. This was not an intensive inventory mind you. I just wanted to see if … Continue reading
Peonies are an old fashioned flower with a sweet scent
A few weeks ago I wrote about lilacs. Many northern transplants love lilacs and often have difficulty growing them here in eastern North Carolina. Peonies are herbaceous perennials with fantastic aroma. However, they also struggle with our hot summers. When I … Continue reading
Native plants can be invasive too
There is a new landscaping trend to incorporate more native species. In general I am in favor of that, but people need to learn a little about terminology before embarking on a drastic revamping of their environment. Just because something … Continue reading
Taking steps to prevent mosquitoes is just smart
We’ve had some wet weather in eastern North Carolina this spring. Everyone knows that standing water means more potential mosquito breeding grounds, but we don’t always realize other things besides low spots also fill up with water. Old tires, bottles, … Continue reading
Why do so many people hate math?
My students say it all the time. “This isn’t math class, why do we have to do math, especially word problems?” It’s frustrating. Math is all around us. “Life is a series of word problems,” I tell them. In high … Continue reading
tedmanzer 