Why So Much Damage on My White Pines?
I have a row of White Pines planted by the road in my front yard. This spring they look terrible. Is there anything I can do? Answer: Roadside plantings can be difficult for many reasons. Some of the biggest challenges include the impact of road salts in winter, pollutants from…
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Is Red Morning Glory a Beneficial Plant?
Is Ipomoea coccinea (Red Morning Glory) beneficial to a wildlife garden in central NC? Answer: Hummingbirds are certainly attracted to the red tubular flowers of Red Morning Glory, and butterflies are also known to visit. But there is a caveat when considering this plant for a wildlife garden. Many sources,…
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How Can I Attract Painted Buntings?
I’m trying to attract Painted Buntings – they used to come to my yard but evidently whatever they liked to eat is no longer growing here. Answer: Thanks for your question. You are fortunate to live in part of the country where you get to see these wonderful birds. Their…
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Bird-Friendly Plants for Cape Cod?
I live one mile from the ocean on Cape Cod and would like to know what to plant to attract the greatest variety of birds. There is a lot of lawn around me and some trees, and ornamental foundation shrubs here and there. It looks more suburban than coastal scrub.…
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How Can I Create an Ecological Landscape in Pennsylvania
I want to create an ecological landscape in Pennsylvania on 4 acres of land. How can I get started? Answer: Thanks for your question. You have an opportunity to made a tremendous positive impact with 4 acres. The first order of business is to do a site analysis. A good…
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What Wildflower Seedlings Can I Start Indoors?
I would like to start wildflower seedlings indoors for this Spring’s plantings in the Midwest, but I have heard some wildflowers won’t do well as seedlings. Any advice in this matter would be great. Answer: Thanks for your question. Some native wildflowers are much easier than others to start…
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