Learn about our beloved native plants! Shrubby boneset, or white mistflower, blooms in late fall, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Native to Texas, this perennial thrives in various soils and light conditions, reaching heights of four to six feet. It’s low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, making it an excellent addition to gardens for visual interest and wildlife.
The vibrant season of summer brings forth a symphony of changes in nature, offering a fascinating lens through phenology to appreciate the rhythms of plant and animal life. From plant growth to butterfly transformations, observing these seasonal changes deepens our connection to the natural world and reinforces our role as stewards of Earth’s biodiversity.
Migrating birds face challenges from non-native invasive plants, affecting their food sources for winter and long flights. Birds rely on high-fat seeds and berries to prepare for migration and survive cold weather. Native plants provide ideal food, but invasive species disrupt this balance. Conservation efforts and native plant cultivation are crucial for supporting bird populations. Join the effort by attending the upcoming Invasive Species Workshop!
Birding is a rapidly growing outdoor activity, appealing to people of all backgrounds. Observation of birds in various settings helps us connect with nature and contribute to scientific research. However, it’s essential to adhere to ethical guidelines, including conservation efforts, respecting the birding community, and obeying laws and regulations.
In April, The Woodlands Township celebrates Earth Month with daily activities and events to honor the planet. Volunteer opportunities, educational classes, and outdoor challenges are available, from composting and gardening to birding and sustainable living. The community is encouraged to embrace Earth Day every day with simple actions to protect the environment.
The first robin sighting in December signifies the changing seasons and our connection with nature. Phenology, the study of cyclic sightings, helps us appreciate our natural surroundings. Observing “firsts” like blooming flowers and animal behavior strengthens our knowledge. By recording and sharing these observations, we contribute to a better understanding of our local ecosystem.
Flowering trees are often considered “ornamentals” leaving many to question their purpose beyond just “looking pretty”. But don’t let these beautiful blooms fool you, these trees offer numerous practical benefits to your landscape. Take advantage of these benefits and plant a flowering tree this year!
The 2024 Arbor Day Tree Giveaway will feature numerous native flowering trees, including Flowering Dogwood and Eastern Redbud, the latest species covered in our Trees on the Trail series. Get your own seedling tomorrow, January 27th, at Rob Fleming Park!
Small trees or shrubs offer a wide range of benefits and are valuable additions to every garden’s ecosystem. Shrubs play an integral role in creating bee-, butterfly-, and bird-friendly gardens by providing pollen, nectar, and seeds. They enhance privacy, curb appeal, and property values. With benefits like these, adding small trees and shrubs to your landscape should be a no-brainer!
The 2024 Arbor Day Tree Giveaway will feature two beautiful understory species that can be trained into small trees or multi-stemmed shrubs: false indigo and buttonbush. Keep reading to see which one suits your landscape – or choose both for double the benefits!
Adding native fruit trees to your landscape is a fantastic choice that offers a multitude of benefits. These trees not only yield delicious and abundant crops but also attract wildlife, fostering a thriving ecosystem. The 2024 Arbor Day Tree Giveaway will feature three native fruit trees, Persimmon (Diospyros virginiana), Black Cherry (Prunus serotina) and Chickasaw Plum (Prunus angustifolia). Let’s take a deeper dive into the similarities and differences between these three native species and help decipher which native fruit tree is best for your landscape.
Happy World Turtle Day! Help “shellebrate” this special day dedicated to raising awareness about the endangered status of turtles and tortoises by sharing the importance of these unique creatures and inspiring others help protect them.
