Backyard Pond
For ponds, consider a mix of emergent, submergent, and floating species. Emergent plants, those that have their roots in the water but their shoots above water, can be added to the margins of pools. These include cattails (Typha spp.), arrowhead ... [... more]
Bob Vila |
Backyard Wetland
The saturation of the soil limits the types of plants you can grow to those with "wet feet." How long the soil is saturated determines which wetland plants will grow best. There are many small wetland plants that grow quickly when the soil is ... [... more]
Bob Vila |
The Biting Bugs Of Summer Are Back
The higher concentrations of DEET don't work better, they just last longer. Generally 10%-35% is enough under normal conditions, but never more than 10% on children, and not at all on babies. (Children have a high skin to body weight ratio so ... [... more]
Bob Vila |
Wildlife Habitat
Flowering annuals (plants that live one growing season) and perennials (plants that live for more than a year) add color to the yard and can be added at any stage to attract birds and butterflies. If your yard is large, consider using part of it ... [... more]
Bob Vila |
Water Conservation
When there is a lack of water in the plant tissue, the stomata close to try to limit water loss. Wilting occurs when the tissues lose too much water. Plants adapted to dry conditions have developed numerous mechanisms for reducing water loss, ... [... more]
Bob Vila |
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