What to Know About Catalpa Trees and Their Worms

How to Grow and Care for Pussy Willow Salix caprea, S. cinerea, S. discolor

Rudbeckias in Clare Foster's garden

Carson Downing

Garden art and sculpture creates year-round atmosphere and interest in your garden.

With its scaly armor, pointy ears, elongated snout, and curved claws, the armadillo is undeniably odd-looking. Belonging to the same group of mammals as sloths and anteaters, armadillos are voracious insectivores that eat large numbers of beetles, grubs, ants, termites, and other insects, grabbing them with their sticky tongues. Occasionally, they also eat small amphibians, reptiles, and their eggs.

From snug reading nooks to cute dining banquettes, there’s something satisfying about a cozy little corner. So, it’s no wonder that the concept is gaining traction on social media. Creators have been sharing their decked out “rest corners” on TikTok and Instagram as a spot to unwind, relax, and melt away the day.

It's back-to-school season, which means things could get a little messy in your home and of course, on your clothes. Arts and crafts are all fun and games until you can't get the glitter glue out of your beloved favorite dresses or blouses.

The fall armyworm is a native species that can’t tolerate cold very well. They only overwinter in South Florida and the southernmost regions of Texas. Since they can not tolerate cold, we typically have about four to five generations per year. They begin to show up in late May to early June, but the worst damage typically occurs in August. They migrate north yearly, but their populations are lower for some years, and their damage is minimal. Damage seems worse following droughts.

Hostas are perennials that can be planted across borders and inside containers. They are grown for their attractive foliage. But none of the varieties can tolerate full sun. They preferred shaded spots and moisture. If you want hosta like foliage in your outdoor garden, check out these full-sun hosta alternatives.

Even if you aren't fortunate enough to live next to a meadow of wildflowers, you can still capture their untamed beauty in a container or garden this summer by planting cosmos. Cosmos come in various colors, from burgundy to pink to white. Mix them up for a more natural look, like a wildflower meadow. Bonus: this colorful flower, native to tropical America, attracts birds and butterflies with its cheery blooms. Because of their wildflower characteristics, cosmo flowers are considered invasive in some environments. Cosmos are prime not only for containers but for creating a mass of color in borders or backgrounds or as a filler among shrubs.

Eco-friendly garden design can save you money on landscaping.

Some shade is essential in warmer zones, but even in the North, Virginia persicaria (P. virginiana) appreciates afternoon shade and wind protection.