The charismatic monarch caterpillar (Danaus plexippus) is a joyful sight for any gardener. This one, in its fifth instar stage— the largest and most vividly colored— has undergone its… Read more
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- 10th Anniversary Documentary
Celebrating Our First Decade
In 2020 we celebrated our first decade of programs and the growing community of people committed to our mission. We now have more than 1,000 members who actively support us and participate in our programs. Our Evenings with Experts have reached an audience of 20,000. Annually, at our beloved Native Plant Sale we offer well over 100 native species for sale and we sell over 4,000 plants. Our member-supporters reside in more than 200 of the Commonwealth's 351 cities and towns.
To celebrate, we created this documentary about our founding and growth over ten years. Enjoy!
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The Joy of American Witch Hazel
American witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is a common component of the understory in forests throughout the eastern U. S. with a very uncommon characteristic— it blooms late in the fall (typically October or November in New England), just as most other plants are going dormant. It typically stays in bloom for a month or more, not cowed by freezing temperatures or an early winter snowfall. This brings up the very intriguing question: who pollinates American witch hazel?
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Asian Jumping Worms
A new threat to soil and native plant ecosystems.
Help stop the spread of these recently discovered invasive worms!
Asian jumping worms (Amynthas spp.) have been observed in the United States since at least 2013, and are spreading somewhat rapidly through New England, the northeast, and beyond. Much more destructive than the non-native earthworms (Lumbricus spp.) that we are more familiar with, they dramatically alter the organic soil profile, making the growth of many native plant species difficult or impossible. It is important to limit their further spread, and the seriousness of this threat is receiving attention from soil scientists, cooperative extension agencies, and conservation groups.
Take action! Be sure to carefully examine mulch, soil amendments, or any potted plant material you purchase, to detect infections. Adults worms are easier to observe; less so their tiny cocoons full of eggs. Clean your tools carefully between worksites, and wash your boots as well. Report any new sightings to appropriate state agencies. Learn more. You do not want these invaders in your garden or landscape!
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New And Noteworthy 
A Brief Compendium of Floral Lore
This latest book from Carol Gracie is a fun small volume, rich with botanical nuggets of information that can be appreciated by all of us who love plants and care about the natural world, novice or expert. Just reading one entry makes a great way to start any day of the week. There is much of interest to surprise and delight!
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