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Here’s how to give your Christmas tree a new life the right way
Some tips from the Plant Clinic at the Morton Arboretum for proper Christmas tree disposal.
Home and Garden
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Properly seasoned wood is essential for fireplace safety
Be sure to have your chimney cleaned regularly when using a fireplace or wood stove.
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An easy plant to gift and care for this holiday season
Flowering plants such as azalea, kalanchoe, cyclamen and amaryllis brighten long winter days and make great gifts.
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On the darkest day, look toward light
This winter, as every winter, the lengthening days — or shortening nights — will be an important signal to plants.
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The checkered history of the poinsettia’s namesake and the flower’s origins get new attention
Nearly 200 years after the plant with the bright crimson leaves was introduced in the U.S., attention is once again turning to the poinsettia’s origins and the checkered history of its namesake, a slaveowner and lawmaker who played a part in the forced removal of Native Americans from their land.
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Pointers for purchasing the right poinsettia this holiday season
Poinsettias are traditional Christmas plants that can last throughout the season and beyond with proper care.
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Tree bark can suffer when deer scratch an itch
Deer can damage tree bark in your garden, but there are steps you can take to fight back.
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What’s the most effective way to remove snow this winter?
The key is to apply the recommended amounts of de-icing products to minimize negative impacts on garden plants and hardscapes.
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Gardeners, stay cool: Caution urged with new plant zone map
The zone shift is the latest confirmation of the effects of climate change.
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Winter prime time for pruning
Some tips from the Plant Clinic for pruning in wintertime.
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Should I wrap my evergreens in burlap?
An extended period of cold, sunny days in November and early December can dry out newly planted evergreens.
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Take time to reflect on your garden this year
Here is some advice for things to jot down before you’re swept away by the holiday whirl.
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When can I stop mowing my lawn this fall?
It is a good idea to mow the lawn at a shorter height when you mow for the last time.
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Repeat blooms common after warm spells
Plants rebloom for a variety of reasons, but weather is a big factor.
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Can I leave leaves in my garden bed?
Plant expert Tim Johnson says he has left leaves in home garden beds for more than 15 years with good results.
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Don’t put the hose away just yet
The changing climate means we may need to water longer in autumn than we used to.
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How to winterize your roses
Chicago Botanic Garden staff waits until there has been a hard freeze of around 18 degrees Fahrenheit or three nights in the low 20 degrees before beginning the winterizing process.
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Needle loss no cause for concern
It’s normal for evergreens to drop their oldest needles every autumn, plant experts say.
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How can I protect my garden from squirrels?
Squirrels are a nuisance and frustration for many gardeners when the animals dig up newly planted tulip and crocus bulbs.
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Oak trees will bring beauty to a home landscape
Celebrate "Oaktober" by planting an oak tree.
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Is it OK to mow fallen leaves? The answers to all your fall lawn questions.
Try to mow weekly during the fall to keep up with the leaves as they fall.
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Along a path less traveled at the Chicago Botanic Garden, plants are being evaluated on beauty and brawn
At the Mitsuzo and Kyoko Shida Evaluation Garden, scientists seek to determine which plants are best suited to thrive in the Upper Midwest.
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Rough-looking perennials? Here’s what to do.
Whether to cut your perennials back later this fall is more about how you like your garden to look.
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Fallen leaves could be a useful tool in your garden
October is treasure time when golden leaves pile up like doubloons in a pirate’s chest.
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For autumn oomph, consider shrubs with berries
Beautyberries are just one of several plants you can use to jazz up your fall garden.
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Mumma Mia! Mums provide a splash of color to your fall garden
Depending on weather conditions and mum varieties, you can expect to get a good display of color for four to six weeks.
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When should I move my peonies?
The best time to move your peonies is in early fall.
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How to plant a tree in your yard
Most kinds of trees can be planted any time before the end of October.
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Get ready and get set to enjoy gorgeous fall leaves
Fall color peaks in the Chicago area in about mid-October.
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How to handle lawn grub infestation
Late summer into early fall is the time grub damage is most likely to show up in lawns.