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Honeysuckle: A Growing Threat to Natives
Once prized for their beauty, invasive Asian honeysuckle species are now harming U.S. ecosystems. These shrubs and vines outcompete native plants, disrupt wildlife habitats, and spread aggressively. Early detection and removal are key to controlling their spread. Replacing them with native species like dogwoods and serviceberries helps restore balance and protect the environment.
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Holiday Gifts for Gardeners
If you need a gift for your gardener on your list, here is our editor’s annual list of top picks for 2024, including prices and links to buy them. From whimsy to ecology and garden decor to practical solutions to gardening challenges, you’ll find something for your favorite gardener here.
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Cyclamen is a Houseplant, Too
A Cyclamen plant makes a stunning holiday gift with its vibrant blooms and sweet fragrance. Symbolizing love and tenderness, it adds color and warmth to any space. With simple care—cool temperatures, indirect light, and careful watering—this beautiful plant can bloom for months, offering a refreshing touch of spring during winter.
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More Etymology in the Garden
The story continues with more behind the scenes looks at how our gardening lingo evolved. Why do we call those lush green spaces between wooded areas lawns? Why are tomatoes, bell peppers, and such called members of the nightshade family? Here science meets mystery —- sometimes providing a humorous bent.
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Pit Composting: Easy Solution to Food Waste
If looking for a simple composting method without bins, try pit composting! Separate food scraps, dig small holes, and let nature handle the rest. This underground method keeps waste out of sight from animals, requires minimal effort, and produces nutrient-rich compost. It’s perfect for vegetative scraps like fruit peels, eggshells, and coffee grounds!
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Don’t Cry Wolf – Spiders!
As temperatures drop, hairy spiders may seek warmth inside your home. Wolf spiders and nursery web spiders, while intimidating in appearance, are shy hunters that pose no threat to humans. These harmless hunters help control pests like crickets and grasshoppers. Safely guide them back outside — they’re beneficial for your garden!
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Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law. |