Northern & Central Midwest
August, 2005
Regional Report
National News - From NGA Editors
Build a Rain Garden
Storm water runoff can be a big problem in summer during heavy thunderstorms. As the water rushes across roofs and driveways, it picks up oil and other pollutants. Municipal storm water treatment...
A Different Lamb's Ears
When you say lambs ears ( Stachys byzantina ), most flower gardeners think of the perennial with silvery white, wooly foliage and purple flower spikes. However, there is another version of lambs...
All About Watermelons
There is nothing that says summertime like fresh watermelon. If youre looking for more ways to use watermelons in recipes, as decorations, or in activities with your kids, check out the...
New False Aster
Boltonia is a flower in the aster family that blooms in late summer. A North American native, boltonia produces masses of white, pink, or violet flowers, depending on the variety. This perennial...
In the Garden
Tough and Beautiful Native Plants
For those of us with environments not particularly suited to growing sensitive or tender nonnatives, there is a wide selection of native flora available. Happily, landscapes seem to be taking a swing toward naturalistic designs that use these native...
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Resources
Shows & Events
Annual Perennial Plant Symposium The Chicago Botanic Garden presents its 15th Annual Perennial Plant Symposium on September 30,...
Clever Gardening Technique
Acidify Your Soil the Natural Way If your water and soil are alkaline, use oak leaf tea to help acidify it. Make a tea of shredded...
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Regional Reminders
- Don't Let Blossom End Rot Ruin Your Tomatoes
- Reseed Bare Spots in the Lawn
- Check for White Grubs
- Divide Peonies and Daylilies
- Water Fruit Crops Regularly
