People often select plants first for their beauty and second for their functionality in the garden. Frequently, we don’t know or don’t consider a plant’s behavior when we’re selecting them. Almost by definition, a species that is an effective ground cover will have a spreading habit. But does that make the species aggressive or invasive? […]

They’re back! After hitching their initial ride on imported ornamental plants in 1916, Japanese beetles decided North America isn’t such a bad place to live and have made a presence year after year since.  Today, these pests can be a serious nuisance to gardeners and farmers throughout North America feeding on over 300 different species

Gardening enthusiasts have their own set of jargon, just like many other hobbyists. Some of these terms can be confusing, especially to the gardening newcomer. So here’s a brief list of terms that all gardeners should get familiar with. Annual — Plant that completes its life cycle from seed germination to seed production in one

Garlic mustard (Alliara petiolata) can be found in public parks, backyards, meadows, forests, gardens, and along roadsides throughout Indiana. The leaves have a strong garlic smell to them. Garlic mustard was first introduced from Northeastern Europe in the 1860s in Long Island, New York. Immigrants from Europe used it for food (an herb), medicine, and

Although we have been taught colors since before we began attending school, colors can be challenging. Colors are complicated and there is so much variety it may seem overwhelming. Think of the wall of paint color swatches at the hardware store, and you may recall entire sections are devoted to shades of blue or green

In Indiana most broods of the periodical cicada appear once every 17 years. However, two broods come out every 13 years. Periodical cicadas are usually referred to as “17-year or 13-year locusts.” They are about 1-1/2 to 2 inches long and have black bodies, reddish legs, wing margins, and eyes. LIFE HISTORY Cicadas have an

  The Autumn Olive is an invasive species in Indiana. This shrub can grow 20 feet in height. Leaves are alternate, lance-shaped, and have silvery dots underneath (a distinguishing identifying characteristic). The Autumn olive resembles the Russian olive, which is also an invasive species. This shrub produces small, yellow flowers with a pungent odor and

Asian Bush Honeysuckle was once actively imported by the USDA as a plant for ornamental aesthetics, wildlife cover, and erosion control. However, it quickly became an enemy to native environments. Bush honeysuckles can release chemicals into the ground that are poisonous to native plants. Additionally, the dense foliage of these plants block sunlight from reaching

  Tillage contributes negatively to soil health over time. Tillage breaks the soil into smaller pieces, making it more susceptible to compaction and erosion. By reducing the intensity or frequency of tillage, we can foster soil environments that are more diverse and resilient. There are good alternatives to tillage to prepare, plant and tend your