December 23, 2024

Blanket Flower: A Rare Wildlife Magnet

Blanket Flower (Gaillardia) is not just a beautiful plant for the garden. Still, it has an ecological purpose in attracting species of insects and animals that aren't commonplace worldwide. It is a sun-baked perennial with flaming red and yellow flowers, which attracted animals that wouldn't have made it to the other side of the yard. Its nectar-producing flowers, bloom longevity, and versatility make it a benefactor for pollinators and wild animals (some rare or declining). Blanket Flower Attracts Rare Butterflies and Moths Blanket Flowers attract many butterflies, some becoming scarce because of habitat loss and climate change. Such a visitor is the Giant Swallowtail (Papilio cresphontes), the most oversized butterfly in North America. The magnificent insect scours Gaillardia for nectar, which it depends on for summer and fall blooms. An additional species to mention is the Regal Fritillary (Speyeria idalia), a butterfly being pushed out of existence due to prairie habitat destruction. The colorful blooms of the Blanket Flower are the primary nectar source these butterflies need as they migrate or establish breeding populations. The Hummingbird Clearwing Moth (Hemaris thysbe), which mimics a hummingbird with its agile wing swings, also loves the Gaillardia. The moth is a little rarer in the cities but is a typical visitor to the gardens of rural communities on Blanket Flowers. Its larval host plants are disappearing, too, and nectar plants such as Gaillardia are essential for its existence. Blanket Flower Attracts Native Bees and Rare Pollinators Blanket Flowers are a nexus for wild bees, including endangered species. Blue Calamintha Bee (Osmia calaminthae), an extremely endangered bee that only inhabits Florida, sometimes appears in Gaillardia. Rusty Patched Bumblebee (Bombus affinis), another endangered species, seeks Blanket Flowers for pollen, too. There have been nearly 90 percent fewer of this bee in the past decades, and gardens full of nectar-bearing flowers such as Blanket Flowers offer vital forage to eke out an existence. Solitary bees like the Leafcutter Bee (Megachile spp.) also frequent Gaillardia. Leafcutter bees are less visible than honeybees but are essential pollinators. They multiply the productivity of the entire garden through interbreeding. Leafcutter bees make nesting sites out of the delicate petals of Gaillardia and, in doing so, pollinate the flower. Blanket Flower Lures Birds and Small Mammals Blanket Flowers are most common with pollinators, but their seed heads attract birds, especially some rare finches. Lesser Goldfinches (Spinus psaltria) and Pine Siskins (Spinus pinus) like to munch on the seed heads in late summer and fall. These birds are accustomed to eating seeds from plants native to their area, and Blanket Flowers, with their abundance of seeds, are a reliable source. The seeds aren't just valuable for finches and small mammals such as Eastern Chipmunks (Tamias striatus) and White-footed Mice (Peromyscus leucopus). They help spread seeds and, in doing so, have spread Gaillardia in the wild. This mutual relationship helps to keep native species in grasslands and meadows balanced. Hoverflies and Beneficial Insects Hoverflies - some with the body shape of wasps or bees - feast on Blanket Flowers nectar. These insects are double-duty - the adults pollinate flowers, and the larvae feed on aphids in the garden. The rarer of these, the Golden-tailed Hoverfly (Xylota sylvarum), which breeds in temperate habitats, occasionally stops by Gaillardia. They also help the garden's ecology by naturally suppressing pests. Blanket Flower Is A Magnet For Hummingbirds and Uncommon Birds Blanket Flowers also draw Ruby-throated Hummingbirds (Archilochus colubris) to them, which are widely seen across the eastern US but endangered. Hummingbirds use the tubular flowers of Gaillardia for nectar during migration. Intriguingly, rarer birds like the Painted Bunting (Passerina ciris) have been found in gardens populated by Blanket Flowers. These brightly colored birds might come for the bugs attracted to the blooms, and that ripple effect ripples through the local food web. Rare Beetles and Flower Beetles Special beetles like the Margined Leatherwing (Chauliognathus marginatus) visit Gaillardia blooms. Flower beetles are little-known yet often important pollinators. This beetle isn't endangered, but it is undergoing habitat loss, and flowers such as Blanket Flower are its only hope. Even Longhorn Beetles (Cerambycidae), some of them threatened by nectar from Blanket Flowers. Their larvae break down deadwood and are essential for nutrient cycling. The Role of Blanket Flower In planting Blanket Flowers, backyards unwittingly feed the tenuous ecosystem of native species. Because Gaillardias can be grown in mediocre soil, with resistance to drought, and in large numbers, they provide a treasure trove for rare pollinators and wild creatures. When people landscape with Blanket Flowers, they're helping pollinator conservation and creating habitat for endangered species. Blanket Flowers have made more than just looks. They are tolerant perennials that provide refuge for animals slowly disappearing from the wild and help unify cities and nature. With pollinators shrinking at an increasing rate, species such as Gaillardia become more important than ever, so thoughtful gardening that prioritizes biodiversity is indispensable.

December 25, 2024

The Ultimate Native Plant Care Guide

Native plants have become the cornerstone of sustainable gardening due to their ecological benefits, low maintenance needs, and natural beauty. Whether you're creating a pollinator haven or simply want a thriving garden with minimal effort, understanding native plant care is key to success. Here’s your comprehensive guide to growing and maintaining native plants effectively What Are Native Plants? Native plants are species that grow wild in areas where humans' have never planted them. Originating from bird's dropping seeds and wind, these plants have adapted to  wild, local climates, soil conditions, and wildlife.  Benefits of Native Plants: Requires very minimal if any water and fewer and mostly no fertilizers. Native plants provide food and shelter for wildlife and harvesting from humans alike. They also build the soil health and prevent erosion. Getting Started with Native Plants 1. Choose the Right Plants for Your Region The success of your native garden depends on selecting species suited to your climate, soil type, and available sunlight. Use resources like the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map to determine your area’s conditions. 2. Soil Preparation Native plants are resilient, but preparing your soil ensures a strong start. Test Your Soil: Use a soil testing kit to check pH and nutrient levels. Most native plants prefer slightly acidic to neutral soils. Amend Only If Necessary Avoid over-fertilizing ">Adding compost or organic matter may suffice if the soil is compacted or depleted. 3. Planting Tips Native plants are best planted in the fall or spring, depending on your region.   Spacing:    Give each plant room to grow based on its mature size. Overcrowding can lead to competition for resources.   Watering:   >Water immediately after planting to establish roots, then gradually reduce as the plants adapt to natural rainfall.    Mulching:    Add a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds, but avoid piling mulch against stems.   Caring for Native Plants 1. Watering Once established, native plants need minimal watering. However, during prolonged droughts, supplemental watering may be required to keep them healthy.    2. Pruning Remove dead or damaged growth in early spring before new growth begins. For aesthetic purposes, cut back perennials after they’ve gone dormant.    3. Managing Pests and Diseases Native plants are naturally resistant to most pests and diseases. Encourage Beneficial Insects: Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of harmful pests. Avoid Chemicals: Pesticides can harm pollinators and disrupt the ecosystem.    4. Weeding While native plants compete well with weeds, some manual weeding may be necessary, especially in the first year. Attracting Pollinators Native plants like Milkweed, Bee Balm, and Coneflowers are pollinator magnets. Plant a variety of species to provide nectar throughout the growing season. Include host plants like Milkweed for butterflies to lay their eggs.     A timeline of blooming native plants throughout the seasons to support pollinators year-round.   Seasonal Care Tips Spring:  Clear winter debris and prune as needed    Fertilize lightly with compost if required   Summer:   water sparingly. Deadhead flowers to encourage more blooms.    Fall:    Cut back spent perennials but leave seed heads for birds. Plant new natives to establish roots before winter.    Winter:    Avoid cutting all plants; some provide winter interest and habitat. Protect young plants with mulch if necessary.   Why Native Plants Matter Cultivating native plants goes beyond aesthetics. They are critical for: Biodiversity: Supporting native insects, birds, and mammals.    Climate Resilience:    Withstanding local weather extremes better than non-natives.    Water Conservation:   Thriving with less irrigation. Common Mistakes to Avoid Overwatering or fertilizing established native plants. Planting invasive species thinking they’re native. Ignoring light and spacing requirements.    Thoughts Creating a thriving native garden is a rewarding way to connect with your local ecosystem while promoting sustainability. With proper care, your native plants will not only beautify your space but also provide vital support to wildlife. Start small, choose wisely, and enjoy the natural beauty that native plants bring year after year.      

December 26, 2024

Purple Coneflower Plants' Longevity, and Growing Tips

Purple coneflower, also known as Echinacea purpurea is one of our customers' favorite flowering perennials for its stunning flowers and carefree growth habits.

December 26, 2024

All About New York Ferns: Growth and Identification

This graceful, feathery fern is a favorite for its ability to enhance shady landscapes. Below, we answer some of the most common questions to help you understand and appreciate this beautiful native fern.