Home and Garden – Page 37

A bed of lily-of-the-valley that recently died back. (Tim Johnson/Chicago Botanic Garden)

Anthracnose is not a fatal plant disease

By Tim Johnson

October 10, 2026 at 5:00 a.m.

This disease is not usually fatal, but it does weaken the plant.

A monarch butterfly climbs on verbena blooms Sept. 9, 2025, in Oak Park. Land managers of rights-of-way throughout the area are increasingly implementing monarch-friendly practices such as installing native plants and mowing less frequently. (Brian Cassella/baiduhai)

As monarch butterflies head south, they’re getting an assist along utility rights of way, roadways

By Susan DeGrane

October 9, 2026 at 9:52 a.m.

The Illinois Department of Transportation, ComEd and other agencies are implementing practices along rights of...

Even spectacular bulbs such as these peony-flowered tulips are most effective groups. Plant them in fall for spring bloom. (Beth Botts/The Morton Arboretum)

Plant bulbs now for spring bloom

By Beth Botts

October 4, 2026 at 5:00 a.m.

There’s no more satisfying way to spend a crisp fall day than planting bulbs for...

To renew a crowded shrub, prune out the thickest, oldest stems to favor newer ones. Be sure not to remove more than a third of the shrub in one year.

Pruning depends on your purpose

By Beth Botts

January 21, 2024 at 4:13 p.m.

There you stand, pruners at the ready, facing a dormant shrub on a winter's day....

Crab apples provide fruit for birds in fall and winter.

Embrace the beauty of bird watching in winter

By Tim Johnson

January 14, 2024 at 5:00 a.m.

I have become interested in bird watching and would like to attract more birds to...

As you plan to start seeds, read seed packets carefully for important information about how many plants you will need and how and when to sow the seeds.

Tips for successfully starting seeds at home

By Beth Botts

January 13, 2024 at 5:00 a.m.

Starting plants from seed can make vegetable gardening both less expensive and more interesting. "You...

Winter, when dormant trees have bare branches, offers a good opportunity to have them pruned if they need it.

Take advantage of winter to have trees pruned

By Beth Botts

January 7, 2024 at 5:00 a.m.

The bare branches of trees are starkly beautiful against the winter sky. They also make...

A large oak tree that needs to be removed.

How to remove a dead oak tree

By Tim Johnson

January 6, 2024 at 5:00 a.m.

I have a large dead oak tree to remove. What kinds of issues do I...

Dispose of your Christmas tree carefully according to local rules so it can be chipped up into mulch that will nurture the soil for other plants.

Here’s how to give your Christmas tree a new life the right way

By Beth Botts

December 31, 2023 at 5:00 a.m.

Start the new year right by disposing of your Christmas tree in a way that...

Ensure wood is properly seasoned before burning it in the fireplace.

Properly seasoned wood is essential for fireplace safety

By Tim Johnson

December 30, 2023 at 5:00 a.m.

I have some trees to remove in my garden next year and was wondering if...

Flowering plants such as cyclamen brighten long winter days and make great gifts.

An easy plant to gift and care for this holiday season

By Tim Johnson

December 24, 2023 at 5:00 a.m.

We would like to give plants as gifts this winter and would like some advice...

The winter solstice is worth celebrating because it marks the beginning of increasing sunlight that will bring springtime to plants and people.

On the darkest day, look toward light

By Beth Botts

December 23, 2023 at 5:00 a.m.

The deepest darkness of the year is a sign of the coming light, for plants...

Poinsettias are a staple at Schaefer Greenhouse in Montgomery during the holiday season.

The checkered history of the poinsettia’s namesake and the flower’s origins get new attention

By Associated Press

December 20, 2023 at 4:21 p.m.

Like Christmas trees, Santa and reindeer, the poinsettia has long been a ubiquitous symbol of...