The why, when, and how behind a how-to
“Leave the leaves” is not a platitude. It’s a reminder of the role we share in supporting wildlife and the local ecology. One of the most impactful things we can do for pollinators, insects, and other invertebrates is simple: don’t throw away their shelter just before winter. Fallen leaves act as a vital insulating layer […]
How Fallen Leaves Sustain Life Beneath the Surface Read More »
Fall, Guide, Observations, WinterIt’s February in Pennsylvania—the perfect time to plan your garden and dream about the warm days ahead. This year, I’m thinking about the wildlife I want to attract and how that shapes my plant choices. Instead of flipping through seed catalogs in search of the brightest colors or the latest “deer-resistant” plants, I’m asking myself:
Plant with Purpose – Why Your Plant Choices Matter for Local Wildlife Read More »
Guide, ObservationsUsing dichotomous keys and observing physical characteristics to make a successful ID A few years ago, I found myself becoming captivated by trees—their age, growth habits, evolutionary history, and the way they weave into our stories, movies, video games, and daily life. This fascination with growing trees has become a true passion of mine and
Branching Out: Self-Education Resources and Secrets to Tree ID Skills Read More »
Guide, WinterThis cold January weather has me thinking back on that high summer heat and the luffa plant that became the focal point of my garden, and many conversations. There are great articles out there outlining how to grow luffa (like this one by the awesome Niki Jabbour), so instead, I’ll outline my growing experiences here
Growing luffa, nature’s sponge Read More »
Guide, SummerThe single most important thing you can do during the winter season in your garden can also be one of the most difficult things for a lot of gardeners—leave it be. Leave the tall, browned stalks of your summer annuals upright, let the fallen oak and maple leaves blanket the ground, and let the landscape
Leave it be – A powerful and quiet call to action Read More »
Guide, Observations, Winter