As the days grow shorter and the weather gets colder, both plants and animals need to adjust to these seasonal changes. In our area, most plants go dormant which leaves the animals that depend on them several choices for survival. Some animals, such as chickadees, nuthatches, and field mice change their food source to what is available, such as seeds. …

Summer nights can be magical. Who doesn’t remember long summer nights as a kid, chasing fireflies, gazing at stars, or playing kick-the-can? Shorts and a T-shirt were all we needed to dive into the mysterious and exciting, outdoor world of summer nights. Oh, and one more thing, we needed darkness. Our world is becoming increasingly lit up at night. Sometimes …

Herbs are a wonderful way to connect to the outdoors. Whether you live in the city or suburbia, an herb garden is attainable. All you need is the appropriate soil and plenty of sun. A perfect location for an herb garden is in a sunny location near your kitchen door so that you can step out and harvest some fresh …

In our last “Field Notes”, Lee discussed the benefits of shade trees. Now I would like to mention just a few of my favorites in case you are planning to add one to your own landscape.   At the top of my list is the Quercus alba, or White Oak. This is truly a tree that you plant for your …

After this particularly rough winter, I find myself outside and enjoying the sun every chance I get. But heading further into summer, basking in the sun becomes uncomfortable (and unhealthy) after more than a few minutes. Soon the shade of a mature tree is welcome. Whether gardening, hiking, or reading there is an added serenity to the outdoors when you …

If you have ever dug in your garden, and found thick white, soft bodied bugs just under the surface, to several inches down, you have seen grubs. These insects are the larval form of several different species of scarab beetles, which will eventually pupate, and emerge from the ground. There are several species of scarab beetles, including Japanese beetles, June …

Rain, Rain, Go Away?  In the mid-Atlantic region, we are actually lucky to get the rainfall that we do.  Our “normal” weather patterns of wet springs, hot summers, cool falls, and cold winters have caused the evolution of our uniquely mid-Atlantic flora and fauna, or plants and animals. But there can be problems with our rainy springs, including flooding, erosion …

Everyone knows it was a tough winter in the mid-Atlantic with school closings, stressful commutes, and bitter cold weather, but now that it is spring, we can put all of that behind us, right?  Well, in addition to this winter being difficult on people, it was also damaging to our landscapes.  So what should we be looking for on our …

Have you had enough of snow recently?  Do you have cabin fever?  Here are a couple of ideas to beat the winter blues. Go on a photo shoot Snow days are great days to take pictures.  The world seems fresh, clean, and bright after a snow, so grab your camera and get outdoors! Go birding Birds are easier to see …

As the days become longer and the soil begins to warm, perennials begin to push towards the sun. Through the next few weeks, if the snow ever subsides, we will begin to see this transformation. Leave most perennials standing during the winter. Their dried stems add winter interest in the garden, and provide food and cover for birds and insects.  …