Our landscapes are more than flowers and trees. Within a natural landscape, you will find multiple layers starting at the ground level and moving all the way up into the canopy of the trees. Wildlife utilizes these layers depending on their needs like nesting and breeding or gathering food. Plants will intermingle creating communities based on the conditions present such as shade, heavy clay soil, or a steep slope. Finish the story.

Smooth hydrangea is one of only two hydrangea species native to Illinois. This small and often overlooked native shrub is much more prevalent in southern Illinois, although it occasionally occurs in our part of the state as well. Its dainty lacecap flowers attract a wide range of pollinators and its foliage serves as food source for the caterpillars of two native moths, lending ecological value to this attractive, shade-loving native. Finish the story.

June-bearing strawberries provide one large crop of bigger berries and everbearing strawberries produce smaller berries throughout the growing season. There also are novelty types of strawberries that range in flavor or color – such as purple, yellow, white. Finish the story. 

The home with a front porch container display always feels a bit more welcoming; the back patio with a well-designed pot always feels a bit more relaxing. Designing these eye-catching planters can be intimidating and stressful, especially if you are new to gardening. With a few simple tips and techniques, anyone can create a stunning container that will boost your curb appeal and make passersby double-take to admire your creation. Finish the story.