Prairie plantings are important in maintaining ecological health, supporting biodiversity, and providing numerous environmental and economic benefits. In this post we take a look at how these planting are beneficial and take a look at some plant recommendations.

Here in the Southeast, we typically receive substantial precipitation and are often considered water-rich. However, droughts are not uncommon. We've had a long history of multi-year droughts, including the record-breaking droughts of 2006-2008 and 2010-2012. Last summer, a broader view of the United States showed drought expanding and intensifying, driven mainly by a lack of precipitation, extreme heat, and high evaporative demand. Learn more about why choosing drought tolerant and low water use plants is a wise decision. 

Grasses, sedges, and rushes are essential to pollinators, offering numerous ecological benefits that promote a healthy and biodiverse environment. In this post, you will find useful information and recommendations for grasses, sedges, and rushes that can help support and sustain pollinator populations.

Bees are critically important pollinators, and along with other insects, they are essential to agriculture by pollinating fruits, vegetables, and other crops. Unfortunately, pollinator habitats are declining due to large-scale agriculture and urbanization, which destroy natural bee habitats like grasslands and prairies, replacing them with crops, lawns, and impervious surfaces. While this is our reality, there are many actions each of us can take to create habitats for bees.

Rising costs and a continued focus on maximizing space are prompting homeowners to make intentional decisions about their outdoor areas. Check out this article highlighting current trends, including the growing popularity of sustainable practices and local-specific options for gardens and plants.

The new perennial movement is a planting style known for its soothing mass of swaying grasses and gem-like flowers, reminiscent of flower-rich prairies or wildflower meadows. This naturalistic approach has captivated landscape architects, designers, and gardeners. If you're intrigued by this trend, this article covers all you need to know about incorporating it into your yard.

With heatwaves breaking records worldwide, urban planners and local officials are devising solutions to keep sweltering cities cooler and save lives. Cities are implementing a variety of strategies to combat extreme heat, including expanding green spaces, utilizing reflective and cool roofing materials, and enhancing public awareness campaigns on heat safety. Here's how global cities are responding and adapting to the growing challenge of urban heat.

Climate change is intensifying storms, overwhelming stormwater infrastructure, and resulting in flooding, property damage, and loss of life. This article takes a look at solutions to improve stormwater management including green and blue roofs and the development of "sponge cities" designed to absorb and manage excess water effectively.

Green infrastructure helps mitigate the impacts of stormwater on New York City's sewer systems, reducing the flow of sewage into local waterways. By incorporating elements such as green roofs and rain gardens, the city enhances its ability to absorb and manage stormwater. In this article see how a green roof in Brooklyn is helping to make New York City more resilient to climate change and extreme weather events.

These fast-growing ornamental grasses will fill in your garden quickly for beautiful results you don't have to wait long for. From low-growing, clumping varieties to tall, colorful types, there is an ornamental grass that will complement your yard or garden.

This article compares the acceptance of ornamental grasses in landscaping to the evolution of blue jeans from rebellious attire to a fashion staple. Initially overlooked, ornamental grasses have gained popularity over the past 30 years for their aesthetic and functional benefits, such as erosion control and seasonal interest. This piece highlights influential figures like Art Cameron and Kurt Bluemel in promoting these plants and discusses their diverse applications in modern landscapes.

Got a shaded area in your garden and want to add more color, dimension, and texture? Consider growing perennials that thrive in the shade. While many perennials need plenty of sunlight, there are plenty that prefer partial or full shade. They add vibrancy to your yard and attract important pollinators like bees, butterflies, and birds. Here are the top perennial plants for shade, according to gardening experts.

Native plants have become popular for their environmental benefits and beauty, but myths about their characteristics and care persist. These misconceptions can deter gardeners from using native plants, missing out on their many advantages. By debunking these myths, we can better appreciate the value of native plants and make informed choices for our gardens.