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What Plants Are Native to NJ That Will Attract Bees?
What plants are native to Northern New Jersey that will attract bees? Answer: Thanks for your question. There are many native plants which attract and support bees in your area. Keep in mind that we have a great diversity of native bees – about 4,000 species in North America, in…
What is the best native plant to attract many different beneficial insects?
What is the best native plant to attract many different types of beneficial insects? I live in CT. Answer: Beneficial insects come in many different shapes and sizes, and are active at different times of year. So, the best approach is to plant many different species of regional native plants…
Need some tips on planting Milkweeds for Monarchs
I am a member of a garden club in NY and we are trying to find ways to support Monarchs (and other pollinators). We are working to prevent town mowers from taking down the milkweed in areas through the town and we thought we could plant milkweed in other areas. …
I never see any fruit on my native Viburnums. What is going on?
I have a few native Viburnums but I never see any fruit. I planted them to feed birds. What is going on? Answer: Ah yes, the complexities of native plants. Most nurseries and garden centers don’t tell you that almost all native viburnums need cross-pollination to set fruit (there are…
How do I find a “mate” for my Inkberry?
I bought two female Ilex glabra ‘Shamrock’ (Inkberry) from a local nursery this past weekend but they don’t carry any male Inkberries. Any suggestions? Answer: I feel your pain! The quest to find a matched pair of native dioecious plants can be infuriating! This says a lot about how the…
When should I cut back my perennials?
You advise leaving perennials standing until Spring. When should I cut them back? Answer: You are absolutely right – I do recommend leaving perennials standing through winter to provide a food source for birds, a place to hide for overwintering insects, stems for praying mantid egg cases, etc. Knowing exactly…